[High-dosage medroxyprogesterone acetate treatment in advanced prostatic cancer]

32 patients suffering from previously untreated, advanced metastatic or non-metastatic prostatic carcinoma, were studied in an assessment of the effect of high-dose medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) on the hormonal parameters testosterone and the luteinizing hormone (LH). The dose used was 500 mg intramuscularly daily for a week, followed by 1000 mg monthly until progression or for a minimal period of 12 months. Full castration was achieved and this effect was maintained during the observation period. Stable disease was seen in 20 patients (63%) whilst progression of disease was found in 12 patients (37%). 4 patients were non-responders. The incidence of side effects was 31%.