PC-SPES

Introduction

PC for prostate cancer; SPES is Latin for hope. Combination of Saw palmetto plus Chinese herbs.

Adverse effects

• erectile dysfunction
• hot flashes
• breast enlargement
• blood clots

Mechanism of action

• decreases serum PSA & testosterone levels
• some of Chinese herbs have potent estrogenic effects
• may shrink tumors in patients with advanced prostate cancer

More general terms

• pharmaceutical herb; medicinal herb; herbal supplement; botanical

Additional terms

• prostate cancer

Components

• Serenoa repens (Saw palmetto, Permixon)