Cancer
Medicines for Testicular cancer
A cancer that usually appears as a painless lump or swelling in a testicle, mainly affecting younger men — one of the most treatable cancers, with very high cure rates when found early.
Education and reference only. This explains which medicines are used and why, in plain language — it deliberately contains no doses and is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always discuss your own treatment with a qualified clinician, and check the BNF and the product labelling for prescribing detail.
Quick answer
What is Testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer most often appears as a painless lump or swelling in one testicle, or a change in its size, firmness or shape; sometimes there is a dull ache or heaviness in the scrotum. Unlike many cancers, it mainly affects younger and middle-aged men.
- How it is treated: The first treatment is usually surgery to remove the affected testicle, which also confirms the diagnosis; this alone cures many early cancers.
- Self-care: Being aware of what is normal for you and checking the testicles regularly helps spot changes early.
- When to seek help: See a GP promptly about any lump, swelling or change in a testicle, even if painless.
What it is
Testicular cancer most often appears as a painless lump or swelling in one testicle, or a change in its size, firmness or shape; sometimes there is a dull ache or heaviness in the scrotum. Unlike many cancers, it mainly affects younger and middle-aged men. It is relatively uncommon but important to recognise, because it is one of the most treatable of all cancers, with very high cure rates — especially when found early. Risk is increased by a previous undescended testicle and a family history. Because a testicular lump has several possible causes, any new lump or change should be checked promptly.
How it is treated
The first treatment is usually surgery to remove the affected testicle, which also confirms the diagnosis; this alone cures many early cancers. Depending on the type and stage, further treatment may include chemotherapy, radiotherapy or monitoring (surveillance). Cure rates are very high, including for cancer that has spread. Fertility can be affected by treatment, so sperm storage is usually offered beforehand. Losing one testicle does not usually affect fertility or sex life, and a prosthesis can be offered. Care is coordinated by a specialist team with long-term follow-up.
For this condition, these medicines
Medicine classes used for Testicular cancer
Each links to a full, dose-free guide — what it is, how it works, who can and cannot use it, side effects, interactions and FAQs.
Beyond medication
Lifestyle and self-care
Being aware of what is normal for you and checking the testicles regularly helps spot changes early. Any new lump, swelling or change should be checked promptly, as early treatment is very effective.
When to get help
When to see a doctor
See a GP promptly about any lump, swelling or change in a testicle, even if painless. Seek urgent care for sudden severe testicular pain, which can indicate a different, urgent problem.
Not sure how urgent it is? It is always OK to call NHS 111 for advice, day or night.
Answers
Testicular cancer: frequently asked questions
Is testicular cancer curable?
Yes — it is one of the most treatable cancers, with very high cure rates, especially when found early, and often even when it has spread.
What should I look for when checking my testicles?
A new lump or swelling, a change in size, firmness or shape, or a dull ache or heaviness. Any change should be checked by a GP promptly.
Keep reading
Related articles
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Testicular cancer
- NICE NG12 — Suspected cancer
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