What are the side effects of hormone therapy?

Hormone therapy can cause side effects because it blocks your body's ability to produce hormones or interferes with how hormones behave. According to the National Cancer Institute, the side effects you have depend on the type of hormone therapy and how your body responds. People respond differently, so not everyone gets the same side effects, and some differ between men and women.

Common side effects for men who receive hormone therapy for prostate cancer include hot flashes, loss of interest in or ability to have sex, weakened bones, diarrhea, nausea, enlarged and tender breasts, and fatigue.

Common side effects for women who receive hormone therapy for breast cancer include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, changes in periods if you have not yet reached menopause, loss of interest in sex, nausea, mood changes, and fatigue.

Your healthcare team can tell you which side effects are most likely for your treatment and how to manage them.