What to expect when PSA rises to 157 after prostate cancer remission?

Russell...Lupron suppresses testosterone production, I believe and should shut down PC growth. But there should be other treatments that aim to reduce the metastatic PC. Ask!

I've been on Lupron for 18 months. I have stage IV prostate cancer with a Gleason score of 9 (5+4). After going on Lupron, my psa dropped to <.01 (undetectable). It comes at a cost, though. E.D. and no sex drive for a year and a half. Menopause with hot flashes and mood swings. No testosterone, so weight gain and weakness. But I'm alive and enjoying the rest of my life! There is no guarantee on how long this so-called remission will last. Exercise and keeping busy with hobbies helps. Like Todd said, there are other options out there, too. Ask your cancer doctor!

Richard... I'm getting radiation for my PC metastasis and am on Orgovyx, which is an oral form of Lupron. Yes, I have all of the same symptoms due to the low testosterone. Irritating. Russell...You might look at the webinars sponsored by the Prostate Cancer Foundation. They had one last week on treatments for advanced PC. I believe that they are recorded and available after the live version.

Thanks Todd, good to know that there is an oral version of Lupron. I just got another 6 month dose 3 days ago, and it's still very sore. Also, I forgot to mention that I had 26 sessions of radiation targeting the prostate tumor and the affected lymph nodes. PET scan showed about 50% reduction in activity after the radiation.

When PSA levels rise this significantly after remission, it typically indicates disease progression that requires prompt treatment adjustments, which sounds like exactly what your medical team is addressing with the new medications and Lupron therapy. While facing these numbers can feel overwhelming, many patients continue to have meaningful treatment options and quality time even when PSA levels climb, so connecting with others in this community who've navigated similar situations might provide valuable perspective and support during this challenging time.

Yes, the oral version is called Orgovyx. It is supposed to be faster acting in getting testosterone low and faster to recover normal testosterone levels if you are able to discontinue. But I understand that it is more $$$ than Lupron and some insurers may not cover it.