Combination Finasteride and Flutamide in Advanced Carcinoma of the Prostate: Effective Therapy with Minimal Side Effects

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.