[Treatment of pain caused by metastases of reactivated prostatic cancer with ifosfamide].

Ifosfamide (Z 4942) is an alkylating agent with the structure of a cyclophosphamide analog. Preliminary studies performed in our hospitals demonstrate the releasing effect of Ifosfamide for persistent pain caused by metastases of the prostatic cancer at various regions. Ifosfamide was given 2 grams a day intravenously with hydration and alkalization for consecutive 5 days. The regimen was performed every 3 or 4 weeks. Pain has disappeared in 7 of 10 cases within 2 or 3 courses. Pain of other 3 cases has also greatly reduced. The effective rate for the primary lesion of the prostatic carcinoma in stage C and D is 30.7%. Side effects were nausea, vomiting, hair loss and leukopenia.