- I have stage 4 prostate cancer, metastasized. PSA is 1.5. Originally took Lupron, but Dr suggested Orgovyx ( less side effects). Now Dr suggests adding Xtandi. Good idea? Any similarities out there?
Dear Nical
Thank you for reaching out to us here at Macmillan Cancer Support. My name is Rae and I am one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialist.
Lupron and Orgovyx are both drugs used in advanced prostate cancer. They work by reducing testosterone levels in the body, slowing cancer growth. Xtandi is also a hormone treatment that blocks testosterone from reaching prostate cancer cells.
Which treatments are suitable for you will depend on many things, including your general health, how your cancer responds to treatment and which treatments you have already had. Your own prostate cancer team are best placed to let you know whether adding Xtandi is a good idea as they have your medical notes and a professional relationship with you.
We have a section on the website entitled Questions to ask your Healthcare Team, which you may find useful when deciding to accept the new treatment. It can also be helpful to talk to other gentlemen who are in a similar position to yourself or are receiving the treatment Xtandi. You can do this through either our Online Community Prostate Cancer Forum or through a local support group. The Cancer Care Map enables you to find both local and national support services, just pop your postcode and keywords in, ie., Prostate Cancer.
Facing decision making and new treatments can bring with it many different emotions. It is important to reach out for support if you start to feel these emotions are becoming overwhelming. You may find it helpful to speak to one of our nurses on the Support Line or to consider our offer of counselling.
Best wishes
Rae, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
