Effects of Aminoglutethimide and Hydrocortisone on Androgen Levels in Prostate Cancer Patients
Author Information
Author(s): M. Dowsett, R.J. Shearer, B.A.J. Ponder, P. Malone, S.L. Jeffcoate
Primary Institution: Chelsea Hospital for Women
Hypothesis
Does the combination of aminoglutethimide and hydrocortisone suppress androgen levels more effectively than either drug alone in post-orchiectomy prostatic cancer patients?
Conclusion
Aminoglutethimide combined with hydrocortisone significantly suppresses testosterone and androstenedione levels, but hydrocortisone alone is more effective.
Supporting Evidence
- Aminoglutethimide combined with hydrocortisone led to significant suppression of testosterone and androstenedione levels.
- Hydrocortisone alone resulted in greater suppression of androgen levels than when combined with aminoglutethimide.
- Patients had variable levels of testosterone and androstenedione throughout the day.
Takeaway
This study looked at how two drugs affect hormone levels in men with prostate cancer. It found that one drug works better on its own than when combined with the other.
Methodology
Two studies were conducted on 11 post-orchiectomy prostatic cancer patients, measuring plasma androgen levels after treatment with aminoglutethimide and hydrocortisone, both alone and in combination.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and some blood samples were not available at all time points.
Participant Demographics
All participants had advanced prostatic cancer and were post-orchiectomy, with a mean age of 70 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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