ADT and Increased Blood Sugar - Prostate Cancer A...

Prostate Cancer And Gay Men

1,451 members1,298 posts

ADT and Increased Blood Sugar

805guy profile image
5 Replies

Prior to my diagnosis, my morning blood sugar levels were just on the cusp of normal ranging from 99 to 120 each morning. My primary care physician prescribed Metformin, which seemed to reduce or maintain these levels. I have been taking Orgovyx since 9/23 and expect to complete the regimine in early 10/24. The drug has been remarkable quickly bringing T down to 11 and recent PSA check was >.04(!). I was 19.76 PSA at diagnosis and chose IMRT as my treatment.

Blood sugar levels are now consistently above normal (140 avg.). I have not been exercising, as my job and home obligations takes much of my time and energy recently. I used to walk regularly and ocasionally use weights but after 10 months, my joints noticably ache and my legs are much weaker. I also have gained about 15 lbs since beginning Orgovyx. Like my lack of libido, I have little motivation/interest in exercise. Anyone else felt this way and/or experience type 2 diabetes as a result of ADT? I admire those here who have maintained a healthy exercise/diet plan. I am really hoping to resume exercise and better health after ending Orgovyx and my looming retirement in 8 months. Is there hope? Thanks!

Written by
805guy profile image
805guy
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
5 Replies
Tall_Allen profile image
Tall_Allen

Some guys who can afford it get a trainer.

805guy profile image
805guy in reply toTall_Allen

Thanks, I just might do that.

Jaffa_2001 profile image
Jaffa_2001

Here in the UK we are still on Lupron; the NHS deems Orgovyx too expensive to prescribe despite me asking for that as an alternative.

I am 2 months into a break from my first 6 month stint on Lupron and still suffering from all the side effects despite the break.

Like you the changes to my body are the most hard things to cope with, plus no sex drive at all. As for blood sugar mine has not been monitored here but it has knocked my white blood cell count down so have been advised to stay away from anyone who is obviously unwell...easier said than done!

Tiredness, hot flushes, sweating, restless legs, sleep interruption and aching joints are the most difficult elements to deal with as is motivation. My legs and knees seem to be the most affected and therefore walking is a real effort sometimes. But I have religiously carried on exercising and using the gym (weights) twice a week, despite thinking it is too much of an effort. It wipes me out for a while, but I feel better mentally for persevering.

Like you I want this to be over and hope that my exercise regime will become easier over time. I feel it will so can only say stick in there and like me have a positive attitude about this being a way to kick this cancer’s butt!

Sadly I cannot afford a personal trainer!!

All the best - Brian.

805guy profile image
805guy

Thanks Brian. I wish all the best to you as well. I have found my confident attitude in beating this has made me resilient during this increasingly trying time. At first, it seemed quite fine but after 10 months, the effects are much more noticeable. I am so looking forward to the end of ADT. We have made it this far! Hang in there!

PrettyUnhappyGuy profile image
PrettyUnhappyGuy

I'm refusing to go down the drug rabbit hole where I start taking one drug to counteract the side effects of another, and then yet another to combat the side effects of the second, etc. I'll finish out my course of ADT but will absolutely not take metformin or any kind of heart medications or anything at all like that. IMO, that's just asking for trouble because, before you know it, you're the little old lady with the pillbox full of 30+ different meds.

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Re-staged and not sure if I should start ADT now or wait!

Just been re-staged after a spike in my PSA (6.11). Recent bone scan clear but MRI shows a small...
Jaffa_2001 profile image

ADT, EBRT, and Brachy Boost

Completed EBRT (IMRT) and brachy boost in January. Continuing on Lupron. Last of 3 month doses...
EdinBmore profile image

And so it continues... an update

On 6/6/18 I had my MRI with results of two lesions, one 7mm and one 5mm. Previously, the results...
JohnMN profile image

Hello to all from someone with RP, ADT, and IMRT

I just wanted to introduce myself. I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in February of 2016 when...
wallygator profile image

Cancer Free?

Okay, I’m admittedly beginning to freak out. It’s been three years since surgery and my PSA is on...
billd9946 profile image

Moderation team

Bethishere profile image
BethishereAdministrator
Number6 profile image
Number6Administrator
Darryl profile image
DarrylPartner

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.