Treatment of stage D prostatic carcinoma with megestrol acetate

Nine previously untreated patients with stage D prostatic carcinoma received megestrol acetate 40 mg orally three times daily. Responses included five partial regressions, two stabilizations, and two progressions. Duration of response ranged from 3+ to 33+ months, with a mean of 11.7 months and a median of 12 months. Three of five patients who had failed prior hormonal therapy remained objectively stable while receiving megestrol acetate. No gastrointestinal toxicity, gynecomastia, fluid retention, or thromboembolic complications were observed during treatment. Weight gain of 5 to 51 pounds occurred in seven of 14 patients.