caret icon Back to all discussions

Hot flashes

Hot flashes are having a major negative effect on my quality of life. I have had one ADT injection, Lupron, with another injection slated for April 3. I question the advisability of another shot. Has anyone stopped after one shot? Did this affect radiation.

Has anyone tried any of the women's anti menopause medications? Are they safe and effective?

My Gleason score is 9. My cancer is advanced and aggressive and doctors say that hormonal therapy with radiation is the only way to treat. I am using CBD but so far I have not noticed any benefit.

Ant thoughts and suggestions will be appreciated since I am feeling rather desperate.
Warmly
Bill

  1. As someone who has been through hot flashes during menopause and once again because of mediation due to breast cancer, I can sympathize with you. My husband took Lupron orally for a few years and sadly, we flashed together. But the Lupron kept his PSA low. My thought is that you should discuss your concerns with your doctors before considering stopping your medication. While I'm not happy with having hot flashes again along with the bone and joint pain cause by meds, I look at the long term result of what this medicine is supposed to do for me - keep me cancer free. And that's what I want.


    There are several things you can personally do to to help with the hot flashes and the internet is full of suggestions. I've found that what works for me is dressing appropriately ( can remove layers when needed), cutting back on coffee and alcohol, taking cooler showers, avoiding spicy foods and avoiding tense situations. I know hot flashes are not pleasant and can come at the worst times. I'm sorry you have to experience them. Perhaps the best first solution is to speak with your doctors. They may have some good ideas that work for you.

    1. Thanks for taking the time to write such a thoughtful response. I was prescribed Megestrol today and I am hopeful that it will provide some relief.
      Cheers
      Bill

      1. I tried CBD but it doesn't seem to be working. A few days ago I started taking Megestrol but I don't know how long before it starts working.

        1. Hi . I can't personally speak to Megestrol, but I found this research article on the topic which states "After four weeks, hot flashes were reduced by 21 percent in the group receiving placebo first and by 85 percent in the group receiving megestrol acetate first" and concludes "Low-dose megestrol acetate is well tolerated and can substantially decrease the frequency of hot flashes in women and men:" https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8028614/#:~:text=The%20patients%20documented%20the%20frequency,first%20(P%20%3C%200.001). Hoping you get some relief soon. Best, Richard (ProstateCancer.net Team)

      2. Thanks, Richard. I was sorely in need of good news.

        Please read our rules before posting.