Although chemotherapy is not a standard treatment for prostate cancer, it can be given if the cancer has spread outside of the prostate gland or if the cancer has not responded to hormone therapies. Chemotherapy involves the use of medications to interfere with cancer cell growth and kill the cancer cells. These drugs travel through the bloodstream to circulate throughout the body, killing cancer cells all over, and not simply in a localized area. Side effects with chemotherapy drugs vary with the specific drug, dosage and administration schedule, but the side effects are typically manageable and often subside once treatment has ended.
Docetaxel (Taxotere)
Docetaxel, the generic name for the drug Taxotere, is a commonly used medication in treating prostate cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, the combination of docetaxel and the steroid prednisone has been found to reduce symptoms of prostate cancer and extend life, and is commonly used in men whose prostate cancer is not responding to hormonal therapy. Docetaxel is a taxane chemotherapy drug, and it attacks cancer cells by interfering with the internal structures of the cells during cell division. The drug is given intravenously over the span of one hour, typically either weekly or every three weeks, and it is often given with prednisone to reduce the risk of allergic reactions. Common side effects of docetaxel can include lowered white and red blood cell count (which can lead to anemia and increased risk of infection), nausea, diarrhea (possibly severe), hair loss, rash, fatigue and fluid retention. Docetaxel can also cause peripheral neuropathy, which is when the nerves in hands and feet are slightly damaged, causing burning, numbness, tingling and temperature sensitivity in fingers and toes, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). Most of these side effects are temporary and subside once treatment has ended.
Mitoxantrone (Novantrone)
Mitoxantrone, generic for the brand name drug Novantrone, is a type of chemotherapy drug called an antibiotic, which stops cancer cells from growing and then destroys the cells. It is given intravenously over five to 20 minutes daily for three days, or every three weeks. Common side effects of this medication include lowered white blood cell count, mild nausea or vomiting, headache, and mouth and lip sores, according to the ACS. Prior to taking this medication, your doctor will likely check your heart function and continue to monitor your heart during and after treatment. Large cumulative doses of mitoxantrone have been shown to damage the heart muscle; with continuous monitoring your doctor will be able to find any slight changes in heart function before they become problematic.
Vinorelbine (Navelbine)
Vinorelbine, the generic form of the drug Navelbine, is used to treat prostate cancer, as well as non-small cell lung cancer and breast cancer. It is a vinca alkaloid chemotherapy drug, and it interferes with cancer cells as they are dividing into two cells, which leads to the cells dying. This drug is administered intravenously over six to 10 minutes, and the dosing schedule typically depends on the kind of cancer being treated, your weight and blood counts, and your liver function. Typical side effects include constipation, nausea and vomiting, lowered white and red blood cell count, fatigue and weakness and increased liver enzymes in your blood, according to the ACS. While you are taking this medication, your liver function will be monitored to make sure no damage is being done. This medication may also cause peripheral neuropathy in some people.
Estramustine (Emcyt)
Estramustine, or the brand name drug Emcyt, is used in the treatment of advanced prostate cancer, according to the ACS. It is an alkylating drug, which stops cell growth and causes cell death, as well as serving as an estrogen, which impedes prostate cancer cell growth. Estramustine is typically taken orally three or four times daily but can also be given intravenously. Common side effects can include breast enlargement, nipple tenderness, dry skin, high blood pressure, night sweats, erectile dysfunction, thinning hair, fatigue and lowered sex drive. It may also cause blood clots, although this is rare reports the ACS.
References
- American Cancer Society: Prostate Cancer: Chemotherapy
- American Cancer Society: Cancer Drug Guide
- "Manual of Clinical Oncology" (6th Ed); Dennis Casciato (Ed); 2009
