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What Is Chemical Castration?

What Is Chemical Castration? thumbnail
Physicians may prescribe chemical castration for the treatment of prostate cancer.

Chemical castration is an alternative to surgical castration. Through a less invasive means, chemical castration achieves the same end as surgical castration: reducing the production of the male sex hormone testosterone.

  1. Surgical Castration

    • Surgical castration involves removal of a patient's testes, the primary source of the male hormone testosterone.

    Chemical Castration

    • In chemical castration, production of testosterone is suppressed by the injection of synthetic luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists. According to the Mayo Clinic, these drugs interfere with messages going to the testicles.

    Side Effects

    • According to the University of Nebraska Medical Center, side effects of chemical castration include erectile dysfunction, hot flashes, fatigue and nausea.

    Prostate Cancer Patients

    • Chemical castration is sometimes used to treat prostate cancer. By suppressing production of testosterone, physicians can suppress the growth of tumors. This treatment often lasts several years.

    Sex Offenders

    • Chemical castration may also be helpful in the treatment of pedophiles and other sex offenders, under the theory that reduced testosterone levels lead to a reduced sex drive and decrease the likelihood of committing crimes.

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