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LH-RH Agonists/GnRH Agonists for Prostate Cancer
How It Works
Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) agonists and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists are hormone therapy drugs that lower the production of Reference testosterone Opens New Window in a man's body. This drop in testosterone usually slows or stops the growth of Reference prostate cancer Opens New Window for a period of time.
These drugs work by causing the Reference pituitary gland Opens New Window to release the hormones that cause the testicles and Reference adrenal glands Opens New Window to make testosterone. The pituitary gland then runs out of its hormones, and testosterone production drops.
These drugs are usually given by injection or implanted under the skin. They may be given once a month, once every 3 to 4 months, or once a year.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: September 12, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Reference Christopher G. Wood, MD, FACS - Urology, Oncology |
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