| abstract |
Methods for treating prostate cancer are disclosed. The methods of the invention generally feature administration to a subject of an LHRH antagonist, in combination with a second therapy. In one embodiment, this second therapy is the performance of a procedure that removes or destroys prostatic tumor tissue, such as a radical prostatectomy, cryosurgery or radiation therapy (external or interstitial). In another embodiment, the second therapy is treatment with an LHRH agonist, either simultaneous with or subsequent to LHRH antagonist therapy. The methods of the invention can further involve administering an antiandrogen and/or an inhibitor of sex steriod biosynthesis to the subject in combination with the LHRH antagonist. Methods for inhibiting the LHRH agonist-induced hormone surge, whatever its clinical setting, are also disclosed. These methods generally involve administration of an LHRH antagonist in combination with the LHRH agonist. Complete suppression of the LHRH agonist-induced hormone surge has been achieved by pretreatment with a sustained-release formulation of LHRH antagonist. |