Hormone therapyFDA-approvedFirst-line
Leuprolide
How it works
Blocks the production of testosterone, a hormone that can fuel prostate cancer growth.
Cancer types
Prostate Cancer— All patients
Efficacy
Studies show that leuprolide can slow cancer growth and reduce symptoms in patients with advanced prostate cancer.
Side effects
Mild
Most people tolerate this treatment well. Side effects are generally manageable and do not require stopping treatment.
Evidence from research
| Study | Cancer type | Stage | Efficacy | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ovarian Function Suppression in Breast Cancer Patients | Breast Cancer | phase-2 | — | Source → |
| Evaluating Relugolix vs Leuprolide on Heart Health in Prostate Cancer Patients | Prostate Cancer | phase-2 | — | Source → |
| Enzalutamide Monotherapy for Prostate Cancer | Prostate Cancer | phase-3 | The 5-year probability rate of overall survival was 89.5% for enzalutamide monotherapy vs 87.2% for leuprolide alone. | Source → |
| New Study Compares Cancer Treatment Efficacy in Men with Heart Conditions | Prostate Cancer | phase-3 | A 54% lower incidence of major adverse cardiac events was reported in men treated with relugolix vs leuprolide. | Source → |
| Leuprolide-Fatty Acid Conjugate Improves Pharmacokinetics in Rats | Prostate Cancer | animal-study | — | Source → |
| Relugolix vs Leuprolide for Advanced Prostate Cancer | Prostate Cancer | phase-3 | 97% of men taking relugolix achieved sustained castration through 48 weeks, compared to 89% of men receiving leuprolide. | Source → |
This information is provided for general education only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making treatment decisions.