ADT and Increased Blood Sugar

[805guy]

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!

[Tall_Allen]

Some guys who can afford it get a trainer.

[805guy in reply to Tall_Allen]

Thanks, I just might do that.

[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]

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]

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.