Combination finasteride and flutamide in advanced carcinoma of the prostate: effective therapy with minimal side effects

Abstract

Purpose: The efficacy of the combination of finasteride and flutamide in select patients with advanced prostatic cancer is determined.

Materials and methods: A total of 22 sexually active patients with stages C and D1 carcinoma of the prostate was treated with finasteride plus flutamide. Mean followup was 22 months.

Results: Initial mean prostate specific antigen level was 42.9 ng./ml. At 3 and 6 months, the mean prostate specific antigen level was 3.6 ng./ml. and 2.9 ng./ml., respectively. The results appear durable at 24 months. Side effects were minimal, with 86% of the men maintaining sexual function.

Conclusions: Finasteride plus flutamide should be considered in sexually active patients with minimal volume advanced prostate cancer.