High-dose fluorouracil: a new perspective in the treatment of colorectal cancer?
It is possible that there exists a relationship between the dose intensity of fluorouracil (5-FU) and the response in colorectal cancer. Because a very high dose intensity can be achieved with weekly 24 to 48 hours continuous infusions of 5-FU, this treatment schedule appears attractive. A review of available data suggest that with continuous infusions an enhanced treatment outcome as opposed to treatment with standard bolus injections can be achieved. The superiority of "modulated" standard dose 5-FU versus the maximum tolerated dose of weekly continuous infusion of 5-FU alone, should be investigated. Future studies should reveal whether a superior treatment outcome can be achieved by modulation of high-dose 5-FU.
Wils
J A
JA
Department of Internal Medicine, Laurentius Hospital, Roermond, The Netherlands.
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005472:Fluorouracil / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood; D006207:Half-Life; D006801:Humans; D002955:Leucovorin / Q000008:administration & dosage; D008727:Methotrexate / Q000008:administration & dosage*
D002955:Leucovorin; D005472:Fluorouracil; D008727:Methotrexate