Long-term results with a long-acting formulation of D-TRP-6 LH-RH in patients with prostate cancer: An Italian prostatic cancer project (P.O.N.CA.P.) study

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Ninety‐five patients with stage C (C1 + C2) or D (D1 + D2) prostatic carcinoma were treated with the depot formulation of D‐TRP‐6 LH‐RH (“Decapeptyl”) for up to 33 months. Serum testosterone (T) levels were significantly reduced to castration levels within 4 weeks and maintained persistently low. Similarly, LH levels were decreased, although they remained in the normal range. Stimulation tests with either Gn‐RH or HCG in course of treatment showed the achievement of a complete pituitary desensitization and almost a complete down‐regulation of testicular LH receptors. Of 88 patients evaluable for response, about one‐half showed an objective response. In most cases, subjective improvement with relief of bone pain and/or urinary symptoms was obtained without major side effects. These results indicate that the depot formulation of D‐TRP‐6 LH‐RH offers an effective therapeutic alternative for patients with advanced prostatic cancer.