Chemotherapy for Prostate Cancer

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is most commonly used when prostate cancer has spread to other parts of the body or doesn’t respond to hormone therapy alone. Chemotherapy for prostate cancer is usually given through a vein, and treatment can take several months. 

These are the chemotherapy drugs that are used most often to treat prostate cancer. New 
treatments become available all the time, so this may not be a complete list.

Please note: The side effects listed here do not represent a comprehensive list. Each chemotherapy drug has its own set of side effects and ways of working. It's important to discuss all potential side effects of a drug with your healthcare team. Be sure to tell your healthcare team about any side effects you do have.

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All Available Treatments

IV (through a vein) =      Pill =

Treatment Type

Chemotherapy

Drug Names
(Cabazitaxel) Jevtana® (IV) (Pill)
Carboplatin) Paraplatin® (IV) (Pill)
(Cisplatin - generic) (IV) (Pill)
(Docetaxel) Taxotere® (IV) (Pill)
(Estramustine) Emcyt® (IV) (Pill)
(Mitoxantrone hydrochloride) Novantrone® (IV) (Pill)
Potential Side Effects
Fatigue/weakness Hair thinning/loss Nausea/vomiting Diarrhea Weight/appetite changes Mouth/throat changes Fertility issues Low blood counts Neuropathy
Important Things to Know
  • Chemotherapy is usually given through a vein (IV). Treatment usually happens in cycles over 
    several months. 
  • It is most often used when prostate cancer has spread or no longer responds to hormone 
    therapy. 
  • Estramustine acts as both a chemotherapy and an estrogen (hormone therapy) to shrink 
    tumor cells. 
  • Low blood counts may put you at risk for anemia, infection, or bleeding. 
  • Chemotherapy can cause temporary hair loss, but hair usually grows back after treatment. 
  • Your healthcare team will monitor you for side effects and may adjust doses if needed. 
  • Some side effects like nausea or mouth sores can often be managed with medications or 
    diet changes.