What should I know about steroids and hormones?

ACS Answer

Hormones are natural substances in the body. Corticosteroids (or steroids), such as cortisol, are produced by a small gland (the adrenal gland) on top of each kidney. Estrogens are female hormones produced by the ovaries. Androgens, such as testosterone, are male hormones produced by the testes. Estrogens are used in the treatment of prostate cancer, and androgens are used in breast cancer therapy. Estrogens were once very commonly used in the treatment of prostate cancer, and androgens were often used in breast cancer therapy. Currently, the most common hormonal therapies for these cancers are drugs that block the production or activity of estrogens (for breast cancer) or androgens (for prostate cancer). Corticosteroids are used to treat many different kinds of cancer. They also help to reduce nausea, improve appetite, and reduce swelling caused by any cancer deposits in the brain.

What to look for

• Corticosteroids can cause temporary side effects such as mood changes; difficulty sleeping; fluid retention; increased facial hair; increased urination, thirst, and appetite; muscle weakness; and fat in the cheeks, abdomen, and back of the neck. Taking high doses of corticosteroids over a long period of time can cause osteoporosis (decreased calcium in the bones), increasing the risk of fractures.
• Estrogens can cause temporary side effects. In women, estrogens can cause fluid retention and vaginal discharge or bleeding. In men, estrogens can cause tender swelling of the breasts and decreased sexual interest.
• Androgens can cause temporary side effects in women, such as fluid retention, increased sexual interest, increased facial hair, loss of scalp hair, and increased muscle size.
• Progesterone can cause fluid retention and vaginal discharge.
• Tamoxifen can cause hot flashes and vaginal dryness and discharge.

What to do

• Limit salt intake.
• Watch calorie intake to avoid excessive weight gain.
• Be aware of expected changes.
• Take medication as directed.
• Remember that these side effects are temporary and will reverse after the steroid or hormone therapy is completed.

Do not

• Stop taking medication without notifying your doctor

Call the doctor

• If you are vomiting
• If your emotional mood swings are disturbing you and others
• If you have trouble sleeping
• If you become short of breath
• If you are becoming dehydrated
• If you have any fever
• If your stools become black like tar or contain blood
• If you are having pain
• If you have abnormal vaginal bleeding (after menopause or between periods)

Related Resources

Find books that cover this and other cancer topics at the American Cancer Society bookstore.

You can find more information about cancer drugs in our Guide to Cancer Drugs.

Recommended Consultation

You should consider discussing this question with your doctor or health care team.

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