[Decapeptyl (D-Trp6-LH-RH) in the therapy of prostatic cancer with reference to the intramuscular administration of a depot preparation].

Thirteen patients with untreated prostate cancer were treated initially with subcutaneous 0.5 mg D-Trp6-LH-RH daily for the first week, 0.1 mg daily for the next three weeks and thereafter with intramuscular depot preparations of 3.2 mg every three weeks. Serum testosterone was suppressed to castration levels. Serum LH, FSH and prolactin were reduced, serum cortisol did not change. 10/13 patients showed remissions, as shown by transrectal prostate volumetry, cytological regression grading, serum phosphatases and clinical status. 3/13 tumors showing progression were undifferentiated and androgen-resistant. The investigated compound seems to be effective in selecting androgen sensitive tumors and may be a possible alternative to orchiectomy.