A Comparison of Relugolix vs. Eligard and Cardiovascular Function and Biomarkers during Combined ADT-radiation for Prostate Cancer
Drugs that alter the levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) are a type of treatment for prostate cancer that are used in combination with radiotherapy (RT). One of these treatments is called a GnRH agonist (Eligard) and one is called a GnRH antagonist (Relugolix). While both drugs work to reduce overall testosterone levels, they can cause severe cardiovascular (CV) side effects including death. We will investigate the differential side effects of these treatments. We will use a novel approach, called exercise stress cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, to monitor heart function. Fifty prostate cancer patients will undergo baseline testing with a battery of cardiopulmonary assessments. Patients will then be randomized to receiving six months of Relugolix or Eligard in combination with RT and reassessed. By establishing the mechanistic basis for and quantifying the differential effects of Relugolix and Eligard on cardiopulmonary function, our work could lead to improved treatments for prostate cancer.
