Antiandrogen + Radiation +/- Docetaxel for Prostate Cancer

This trial explores the effectiveness of different treatments for prostate cancer after surgery. It compares two groups: one receiving antiandrogen therapy (which reduces male hormones that can promote cancer growth) and radiation, and the other receiving these treatments plus chemotherapy with docetaxel. Researchers aim to determine if adding docetaxel helps eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Men who have had prostate surgery within the last year and have a specific prostate cancer profile might be suitable candidates for this trial. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to significant advancements in prostate cancer treatment.

The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it mentions that finasteride or dutasteride must be stopped before treatment. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.

Research has shown that docetaxel, one of the treatments under study, has been used by many patients with prostate cancer. In one study, about 34% of patients who took docetaxel required hospital care, and some experienced febrile neutropenia, a fever due to low white blood cell counts. This side effect can be serious but is manageable with proper medical care.

In contrast, antiandrogen therapy, another treatment in the study, has already received FDA approval for prostate cancer. Patients generally tolerate it well. Common side effects might include fatigue or hot flashes, but these are usually mild.

Researchers are excited about these treatments for prostate cancer because they offer a potential new weapon in the fight against the disease. Unlike standard treatments that primarily focus on hormone therapy and radiation, this approach adds docetaxel, a chemotherapy drug, to the mix. This is significant because docetaxel works by interfering with cancer cell division, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of hormone therapy and radiation. By combining these therapies, the treatment aims to tackle cancer more aggressively and could improve outcomes for patients with advanced prostate cancer.

Studies have shown that adding docetaxel to standard treatment can significantly lower the risk of death in men with aggressive prostate cancer. In this trial, some participants will receive androgen deprivation therapy and external beam radiation therapy (EBRT), while others will receive the same treatment with the addition of docetaxel. Research from the CHAARTED and STAMPEDE studies highlights a clear increase in overall survival for patients using docetaxel. Antiandrogen therapy, which reduces male hormones that help cancer grow, is a well-known treatment for prostate cancer and is often used with radiation to shrink or destroy tumors. Combining these treatments aims to target cancer cells more effectively after surgery. Early findings suggest this combination could lead to better outcomes for prostate cancer patients.²³⁶⁷⁸