Long-term treatment with antiandrogens.

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Endocrinology
• Oncology

Background:

• The clinical use of antiandrogens for prostate cancer began in 1966.
• Most published studies focus on short-term antiandrogen treatment with limited patient numbers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the existing literature on antiandrogen therapy in prostate cancer.
• To highlight the differences between steroid and non-steroid antiandrogens.
• To address the growing interest in long-term antiandrogen effects due to fewer side effects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on antiandrogen therapy for prostate cancer.
• Comparison of steroid and non-steroid antiandrogen mechanisms and effects.
• Analysis of short-term treatment outcomes and side effect profiles.

Main Results:

• Steroid antiandrogens exhibit progestational and antigonadotrophic effects.
• Non-steroid ('pure') antiandrogens act peripherally, preserving libido and sexual potency.
• Short-term antiandrogen therapy yields responses comparable to conventional endocrine therapy.

Conclusions:

• Antiandrogens offer a viable treatment option for prostate cancer.
• Non-steroid antiandrogens present a favorable side effect profile, particularly regarding sexual function.
• Further long-term studies are warranted to fully assess the efficacy and safety of antiandrogen therapy.