Androgen Deprivation Therapy For Prostate Cancer: An Overview

Although androgen deprivation is standard therapy for metastatic prostate cancer, there is controversy regarding the optimal regimen and timing of androgen blockade. The Intergroup Study 0105 failed to identify a benefit with total androgen blockade in the subgroup of men with minimal disease and good performance status. The Medical Research Council trial identified an improved outcome in patients with locally advanced MO disease treated with early androgen deprivation, compared with deferred treatment. Approaches such as intermittent androgen suppression and combination therapy with finasteride and flutamide, aimed at preserving the patient's quality of life, remain experimental.