Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) analogs in treatment of prostatic cancer. Clinical perspective.

Randomized, prospective clinical studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of leuprolide, a synthetic LH-RH analog, in patients with metastatic prostatic cancer. Reliable suppression of testosterone to castrate levels is achieved, and response rates are similar to those obtained with conventional endocrine therapy. The lack of side effects associated with this drug makes it an important alternative in selected patients with prostatic cancer, particularly in those who refuse orchiectomy.