Hormone therapy for cancer

Some cancers use hormones to grow or develop. Hormone therapy works by blocking or lowering the amount of these hormones.

Side effects of hormone therapy in men

The side effects you might have depend on the type of hormone therapy that you are having. They usually settle down after a few weeks or months.

Side effects of hormone therapy in women

Many women find that the side effects are often worse at the start of treatment. They usually settle down after a few weeks or months.

Osteoporosis risk and hormone therapy

Osteoporosis is thinning of the bones so that they become more brittle. This increases the risk of breaking (fracture). Some hormone treatments can increase the risk of osteoporosis.

Last reviewed: 
27 Jan 2021
Next review due: 
27 Jan 2024
Coronavirus and cancer

We know it’s a worrying time for people with cancer, we have information to help.

Read our information about coronavirus and cancer