In androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer, which side effects are commonly anticipated?

• A. Weight gain and increased appetite
• B. Improved vision
• C. Hot flashes and decreased libido
• D. Increased hair growth

Answer: (C)

ADT lowers testosterone, creating a state of low androgens. With less testosterone, the body often shows signs of hypogonadism, especially vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes and a drop in sexual desire. These are the side effects most commonly anticipated because they directly reflect the body's response to reduced testosterone. Other effects can include fatigue, bone thinning, and loss of muscle mass, but hot flashes paired with decreased libido best captures the typical ADT side-effect profile. Improved vision isn’t associated with ADT, increased hair growth isn’t expected (hair may actually thin), and appetite changes aren’t the hallmark features of this therapy.