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Published on: March 6, 2018
Relugolix in treatment of prostate cancer: a review
Ioannis Kyriazis1, Themistoklis Bellos2, Stamatios Katsimperis1
12nd Department of Urology, University of Athens, Sismanoglio General Hospital, Athens.
Background:
Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a cornerstone treatment for advanced prostate cancer. While effective, traditional injectable luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists are associated with an initial testosterone flare and potential cardiovascular risks. Relugolix is a novel, oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist developed to provide rapid suppression without a testosterone flare. This review synthesizes the latest evidence on the efficacy, safety, and clinical utility of relugolix.
Methods:
This non-systematic review was conducted via a search of PubMed and MEDLINE databases up to July 2025 using the terms "relugolix" AND "ADT" OR "Androgen Deprivation Therapy" AND "Prostate Cancer." Only original studies in English were included.
Results:
The phase III HERO trial established the superiority of relugolix over leuprolide, demonstrating higher rates of sustained castration (96.7% vs 88.8%) and a significantly faster onset of action. Relugolix also showed a 54% reduction in major cardiovascular adverse events. Furthermore, it exhibited equivalent efficacy to injectable degarelix when combined with radiotherapy, but with more robust testosterone recovery after treatment cessation (52% vs 16%). Real-world data indicates high patient adherence to the oral regimen, and a cost-effectiveness analysis suggests it is a cost-effective option despite a higher drug cost.
Conclusions:
Relugolix represents a significant advancement in ADT, offering a potent, oral alternative with a rapid onset of action, a superior cardiovascular safety profile, and improved testosterone recovery. It provides clinicians with a valuable option for treating advanced prostate cancer, particularly in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities.
Insights
Relugolix, an oral GnRH antagonist, offers rapid testosterone suppression for advanced prostate cancer without a flare. It demonstrates superior efficacy and cardiovascular safety compared to traditional therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a standard treatment for advanced prostate cancer.
- Traditional injectable LHRH agonists carry risks like testosterone flare and cardiovascular events.
- Relugolix is an oral GnRH antagonist designed for rapid testosterone suppression without a flare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the efficacy, safety, and clinical utility of relugolix in advanced prostate cancer.
- To synthesize current evidence on relugolix as an alternative ADT option.
Main Methods:
- A non-systematic review of PubMed and MEDLINE databases up to July 2025.
- Search terms included "relugolix," "ADT," "Androgen Deprivation Therapy," and "Prostate Cancer."
- Inclusion of original studies published in English.
Main Results:
- The HERO trial showed relugolix superior to leuprolide in sustained castration rates and onset speed.
- Relugolix demonstrated a 54% reduction in major adverse cardiovascular events.
- Equivalent efficacy to degarelix with improved testosterone recovery post-treatment was observed.
Conclusions:
- Relugolix is a significant advancement in ADT, offering an oral, potent option.
- It provides rapid action, a favorable cardiovascular safety profile, and better testosterone recovery.
- Relugolix is a valuable choice for advanced prostate cancer, especially for patients with cardiovascular issues.
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