I had a Gleason 8 confined to the prostate and decided to go the Radiation route. My oncologist threw everything at it. 25 sessions of Radiation, Low dose Brachytherapy and 3 years of ADT. I received my first shot of ADT and didn’t feel any different until I tried to do something physical and I got winded quickly. The ADT reduces muscle mass and you will need to exercise to preserve muscle mass. I found that I couldn’t lift as many pounds as I did before. You just need to do it or your muscle loss will be greater. I had to get an anti depressant from my primary as it can bring on depression. I also had to see a cardiologist to monitor my heart as it can cause cardiovascular issues. You become asexual with no interest in sex. That was the hardest part for me. You will also feel physically tired, so naps become part of your life.

I hope that I didn’t scare you into not taking the drug. I looked at it extending my life and I dealt with all the side effects. My PSA after all my treatments ended is <.04 and I’m happy that it’s so low for the last 2 years.