Hi Anyone/Everyone,

Does anyone know anything about the hormone rods that they put in your arm for prostate cancer. They last about a year. Does anyone know of anyone or has had their own results from this. What are the number of times this can be done? A relative is fixing to have one removed (it has been 1 yr. - & worked really well) and another inserted. Do you have any experience or knowledge of this working for another year?

Thanks for any replies, Wannabe

Wannabe-These are somewhat like the birth control rods women have used.
Instead of a shot every month,every 3 months or whatever, the rods are inserted once a year. They allow slow release of the medication over a year's time, somewhat like "depo" shots, but for a longer period of time. Just like the shots, they tend to work well at first. They should be able to be reimplanted and work until the cancer becomes resistant. This is the important thing to remember-eventually prostate cancer becomes resistant to this treatment. It buys time for the advanced prostate cancer patient. Side effects such as impotence, loss of desire, hot flashes & osteoporosis can occur.
Positive4U :)

Thanks Positive4u,

That info helped. At least when he has his second rod inserted, it may last 6 mo. to a yr. He is 90 but still going strong! Appreciate the help.

Wannabe