A phase I clinical and pharmacokinetic study of fenretinide combined with paclitaxel and cisplatin for refractory solid tumors.
BACKGROUND
Fenretinide is a semi-synthetic retinoid that has pro-apoptotic effects as a single agent and synergistically with chemotherapy in vitro. We performed this study to determine the toxicity of cisplatin, paclitaxel and fenretinide in patients with advanced cancer, the recommended phase II dose of these agents together, and the pharmacokinetics (PK) of fenretinide when administered with chemotherapy.


METHODS
Fourteen patients (mean age 57.3) were assessable for pharmacokinetics, toxicity and response. Fenretinide was given orally in 2 divided daily doses for 7 days, starting 24 hours prior to cisplatin and paclitaxel. Cisplatin and paclitaxel were given in standard fashion. Cycles were repeated every 3 weeks. Cycle one fenretinide PK was obtained on days 2 and 8.


RESULTS
Dose limiting toxicity (Gr 3 diarrhea and Gr 4 neutropenia) was encountered in two patients during cycle one at 80/175/1,800 mg/m(2) of cisplatin/paclitaxel/fenretinide (dose level 2), respectively. Seven patients received 2-8 cycles at the recommended level of 60/135/1,800 (dose level 1). Severe cumulative toxicities included fatigue, nausea/vomiting, neuropathy, and dehydration. Two patients had a partial response and 4 patients had stable disease for up to 8 cycles. PK analysis demonstrated a reduction in fenretinide Cmax on day 8 compared to day 2, accompanying a decrease in AUC.


CONCLUSIONS
Cisplatin/paclitaxel/fenretinide can be administered safely at 60/135/1,800 mg/m(2) respectively on an every three-week schedule. This combination may have activity in a variety of tumors, however, the number of pills required complicates oral dosing of fenretinide, and limits the applicability of this regimen.
Otterson
G A
GA
Experimental Therapeutics Program, The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, 320 West 10th Avenue, Columbus, OH 43210, USA. otterson-1@medctr.osu.edu
Lavelle
J
J
Villalona-Calero
M A
MA
Shah
M
M
Wei
X
X
Chan
K K
KK
Fischer
B
B
Grever
M
M
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D000971:Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002945:Cisplatin / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D017313:Fenretinide / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism; D017239:Paclitaxel / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D017313:Fenretinide; D017239:Paclitaxel; D002945:Cisplatin