Vitamin D and intervention trials in prostate cancer: from theory to therapy.
Schwartz GG.
Ann Epidemiol. 2009 Feb;19(2):96-102. Epub 2008 Jul 10.
PMID: 18619854
doi:10.1016/j.annepidem.2008.03.007
This suggests that whereas vitamin D (e.g., cholecalciferol) might prevent prostate cancer, existing prostate tumors likely would require treatment with 1,25(OH)(2)D and/or its analogs. The major obstacle to the use of 1,25(OH)(2)D in patients therapeutically is the risk of hypercalcemia. Several maneuvers to reduce this risk, including pulse dosing and the use of less calcemic 1,25(OH)(2)D analogs, have been explored in Phase I-III clinical trials. Once merely a promise, vitamin D-based therapies for prostate cancer may soon be medical practice.