Targeted treatments for prostate cancer

Targeted treatments are medicines designed to act on specific features of cancer cells. Instead of affecting many cells in the body (like chemotherapy), they focus on particular changes inside the cancer cells.

This means they work in a more precise way, although side effects still occur.

These treatments are not used as the main treatment for localised prostate cancer.

Targeted treatments are mainly used for:

• Prostate cancer that has spread (metastatic prostate cancer)
• Cancer that is no longer responding to hormone therapy (sometimes called castration-resistant prostate cancer)

They may be given:

• After hormone therapy
• Alongside other treatments for advanced disease

Before starting certain targeted treatments, your doctor may recommend blood tests or tests on your tumour tissue. These tests look for specific genetic changes that can show whether the treatment is likely to work for you.

Targeted treatments are part of modern treatment for advanced prostate cancer. They are not recommended for localised prostate cancer outside of clinical trials.

Your doctor will explain whether this type of treatment is suitable for you and how it fits into your overall treatment plan.

This chapter contains general information about targeted treatments for prostate cancer. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for guidance on your individual medical situation.

The creation of this chapter was funded by Ferring Pharmaceuticals. Its content has been independently developed and approved by the EAU Patient Office.

Last updated: February 2026

Reviewed by: 

• Dr. Nikolaos Grivas (Guideline Panel on Prostate Cancer)
• Mr. Eamonn Rogers (Patient Office Chairman)
• Dr. Erik Briers (Patient Office EPAG)