I've been diagnosed with prostate cancer...wish to treat with alternative means
Although we take care to ensure accuracy, Macmillan Cancer Support does not accept liability for the information and materials provided or referenced in Ask an Expert or for any errors or omissions in them, or for third-party information or services such as other websites we may link to. The information and materials provided or referenced in Ask an Expert are for information purposes only and are not intended to be legal, financial or medical advice or opinions. If you need more details on your rights, please contact a financial, legal or other appropriate adviser.
We recommend that you consult your doctor if you are concerned about your health. Any You should not rely on any information and materials provided or referenced in Ask an Expert including by our Experts as they are not a replacement for advice, diagnosis or treatment from your medical team, and our Experts cannot provide a second opinion to that of your medical team.
Your question can be read by others – so please don't post your contact details or any other information that could personally identify you. Please read our Terms and Conditions and Community Guidelines for more details.
I've been diagnosed with prostate cancer...wish to treat with alternative means
Hi Greggorio
Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community. My name is Sherrye and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.
I’m sorry to learn you’ve been diagnosed with prostate cancer, this understandably must be an emotional time for you, there are several ways Macmillan can support you with how you are feeling.
When it comes to your treatment plan the best people to discuss this with are your oncology team, being your consultant and clinical nurse specialist (CNS) as they know your situation best and what the best treatment plan is for you.
It’s natural to want to explore alternative treatments but this should always be discussed with your team beforehand as not all alternative treatments are safe and may not provide any benefit at all.
Fenbendazole is used in veterinary medicine to treat animal gastrointestinal parasites. The use of fenbendazole for cancer is still experimental and unproven, more studies are needed to determine its safety for humans.
Ivermectin is used to treat parasites in humans, but it only licenced for that at present.
If you are not keen on the treatment you’re being offered I would encourage a talk with your cancer team about any other options that may be available to you at this time.
I hope this information helps. Please feel free to get back in touch if you want more information or support.
Best wishes,
Sherrye H,
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), send us an email or contact us through webchat.
Ref SH/GM
Whatever cancer throws your way, we’re right there with you.
We’re here to provide physical, financial and emotional support.
© Macmillan Cancer Support 2025 © Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604). Also operating in Northern Ireland. A company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales company number 2400969. Isle of Man company number 4694F. Registered office: 3rd Floor, Bronze Building, The Forge, 105 Sumner Street, London, SE1 9HZ. VAT no: 668265007