How Will My Mood, Energy And Weight Be Affected By Hormone Therapy?

Dr. Smith answers the question: 'Hormone Therapy Effects on Mood, Weight?'

ByABC News
November 19, 2008, 12:19 PM

March 16, 2009 -- Question: How will my mood, energy and weight be affected by hormone therapy?

Answer: Most men receiving hormone therapy for prostate cancer will notice changes in their body composition, energy level and mood. The majority of men receiving hormone therapy for prostate cancer will gain some weight and they'll note that they increased their fat mass and lose muscle mass or strength. The severity of these symptoms can range from quite mild to very bothersome.

Many men have accompanying loss of energy or fatigue and some men will notice alterations in mood with the more depressed affect. Men with a prior history of depression may experience recurrent depression, although we do not believe that hormone therapy itself causes depression.