Gynecomastia (male breast enlargement) bc of ADT-prevention/experience

Posted by jimrpadtsrt @jimrpadtsrt, Aug 25, 2023

Hi,
I will begin ADT (six-month dosage) plus Salvage Radiation Therapy (Prostate Bed Radiation) shortly due to recently detectible PSA and rising PSA after 6 years of undetectable PSA post Radical Prostatectomy.
I am concerned about this possible side effect of the ADT therapy and what the percentage of occurrence.
I understand it is permanent and breast reduction surgery is the only after the fact possible remedy which may have less than satisfactory results.
I also understand the preventative measures may be available, such as radiation of the nipples prior to beginning of hormone therapy or possibly dosages of Ferma (letrozole).
Have you experienced the same concerns, and/or experienced this condition due to ADT? What are if any possible preventions that you are aware of?

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michaelcharles | @michaelcharles | Aug 26, 2023

I recently completed Salvage treatment: 4 mos of ADT Orgovyx, together with 37 IMRT radiation treatments to the whole pelvic region and pelvic lymph nodes.
And did not experience this side effect.
It seems ADT effects many men differently.
And I thought this side effect occurred more often with longer term (18 - 24 mos) ADT.
I did have a very bad case of Radiation Proctitis, which resolved a few weeks after rad tx ended.
Good luck

samidh | @samidh | Aug 26, 2023

I too have symptoms of gynaecomastia after having been on Zoladex and Abiraterone since October last year and Tomotheraphy 20 fractions in Jan-Feb this year. Unfortunately, our doctors do not even discuss this issue, so its fait accompli. It's not too bad now, but let me see what happens after a year plus till when I have to continue on the oral drugs.

grandpun | @grandpun | Aug 26, 2023

I'm 18-months past RARP and on Lupron ADT for 16-months.
Yes, ADT affects men differently.
My main side affect has been hot flashes but now have an Rx to reduce both frequency and intensity.
I've had no noticeable breast enlargement so you may want to consider crossing that bridge should you encounter it.
Best of luck in controlling any further PC.
bob

joseph1714 | @joseph1714 | Aug 26, 2023

Please specify the " Rx to reduce both frequency and intensity" of hot flashes.

Thank you

grandpun | @grandpun | Aug 27, 2023

Paroxetine HCL, 40mg once per day is my Rx (yours may be a bit different based on what your doctor decides). It does have some anti-depressant action similar to the Zoloft I took. So the Z had to stop when paroxetine started.
It has reduced my hot flashes a good bit.
God Speed,
bob