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Megestrol acetate in the treatment of hormone refractory prostate cancer
J L Osborn1, D C Smith, D L Trump
1Prostate and Urologic Cancer Center, University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute, Pennsylvania, USA.
Abstract:
This retrospective study evaluates the efficacy of megestrol acetate in patients with hormone refractory metastatic adenocarcinoma of the prostate. Data are presented from 14 patients with advanced prostatic adenocarcinoma who were treated with 160-320 mg of megestrol acetate daily. Each patient was either asymptomatic or had minimal cancer-related symptoms. Disease response was monitored by prostate-specific antigen levels. The response rate was 14%, with two patients having a partial response. No complete responses were observed. The median time to disease progression was 2 months. Our findings when considered together with results from previously published data demonstrate little activity of megestrol acetate in patients with hormone refractory prostate cancer. Therefore, we cannot recommend megestrol acetate as an effective second-line therapy.
Insights
Megestrol acetate showed limited efficacy in treating hormone-refractory prostate cancer, with a low response rate and short progression-free survival. It is not recommended as a second-line therapy for advanced prostate adenocarcinoma.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Urology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Hormone-refractory metastatic adenocarcinoma of the prostate poses a significant treatment challenge.
- Identifying effective second-line therapies is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of megestrol acetate as a treatment for hormone-refractory metastatic prostate cancer.
- To assess the response rate and time to disease progression in patients receiving megestrol acetate.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study of 14 patients with advanced prostate adenocarcinoma.
- Treatment involved daily doses of 160-320 mg of megestrol acetate.
- Disease response monitored via prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels.
Main Results:
- A 14% response rate was observed, with two partial responses and no complete responses.
- The median time to disease progression was 2 months.
- Combined with prior data, megestrol acetate demonstrates minimal activity in this patient population.
Conclusions:
- Megestrol acetate is not an effective second-line therapy for hormone-refractory prostate cancer.
- Further research into alternative treatment strategies is warranted.