How to support a 70-year-old with advanced prostate cancer?

Question

Hello doctor,

My father-in-law, 70, is struggling with advanced prostate cancer and its impact on his quality of life. We are seeking comprehensive guidance on pain management, treatment options, and how to support him through this challenging journey. The emotional and physical toll on our family is significant, and we need practical advice on navigating this difficult situation.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Sorry to hear about your father-in-law's diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer and the toll it is taking on your family. I understand the physical and emotional challenges of this stage. I will try to help with treatment options and strategies that can alleviate suffering and improve his quality of life.

For managing pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can treat mild to moderate pain, while opioids such as Morphine (MS Contin) and Tramadol (Ultram) help with severe pain. Medications like bisphosphonates, such as zoledronic acid (Reclast, Zometa), and Denosumab (Xgeva) can help strengthen bones affected by metastasis. Androgen deprivation therapy, which reduces testosterone, is the main treatment for prostate cancer, with chemotherapy (docetaxel - Taxotere, cabazitaxel - Jevtana), targeted therapy (Olaparib - Lynparza), and immunotherapy (Pembrolizumab - Keytruda) as additional options. Consider palliative care to improve his comfort and quality of life.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.