Gallium nitrate. A review of its pharmacological properties and therapeutic potential in cancer related hypercalcaemia.
Gallium nitrate, a novel drug for the treatment of cancer-related hypercalcaemia, inhibits osteoclast activity but does not affect osteoclast morphology or viability. Limited clinical experience in patients with cancer-related hypercalcaemia indicates that gallium nitrate is effective in restoring normocalcaemia in 75 to 85% of patients and is well tolerated in those with preserved renal function, producing few clinically relevant adverse effects. In comparative clinical trials it proved a more effective antihypercalcaemic agent than calcitonin or etidronate and produced a longer lasting normocalcaemic response. Gallium nitrate would appear to be indicated in symptomatic patients with cancer-related hypercalcaemia who have failed to respond to adequate rehydration.
Todd
P A
PA
Adis International Limited, Auckland, New Zealand.
Fitton
A
A
D000818:Animals; D005708:Gallium / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D006934:Hypercalcemia / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000209:etiology; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000150:complications*
D005708:Gallium; C027235:gallium nitrate