The role of weekly docetaxel in the treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer.
Docetaxel is one of the most active single agents in the treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Weekly administration of docetaxel markedly reduces myelosuppression and also reduces nonhematologic toxicity. Phase II trials with single-agent weekly docetaxel have been completed in first- and second-line treatment of advanced NSCLC; preliminary results of treatment with weekly docetaxel-based combination regimens are also available. In patients who were elderly or had poor performance status, weekly docetaxel produced a 19% response rate, 28% 1-year survival, and was well tolerated. As second-line therapy, response rates to weekly docetaxel were similar to results with administration every 3 weeks, although no direct comparisons exist. Combination regimens, particularly weekly docetaxel/gemcitabine, also appear active and well tolerated and should be further evaluated. Addition of various targeted agents (eg, epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, antiangiogenesis agents) also merits evaluation.
Hainsworth
John D
JD
Sarah Cannon Cancer Center, Nashville, TN 25702, USA. jhainsworth@tnonc.com
Greco
F Anthony
FA