Vinorelbine for treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer
Article Abstract:
The newly approved drug vinolbine, a semisynthetic vinca alkaloid, may be somewhat effective in the treatment of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The median survival of untreated NSCLC patients is about 20 weeks. Vinolbine seems to prolong survival and shrink tumors in some patients. Specifically, 29 percent of NSCLC patients had tumor shrinkage and median of survival was 33 weeks. When combined with cisplatin, the therapeutic effect doubled compared to vinolbine alone. Side effects of vinolbine include marked neutropenia, the absence of white blood cells called neutrophils. Other reactions may be relatively moderate, such as hair loss, constipation, nausea, and vomiting. The cost of vinolbine per week is about $235. Some positive results have been reported in the treatment of breast cancer.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1995
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Docetaxel (Taxotere) for advanced breast cancer
Article Abstract:
Docetaxel (Taxotere) offers therapeutic benefits similar to the drug paclitaxel in advanced breast cancer resistant to anthracyclines. Dosing above 60 milligrams per square meter may be linked to serious side effects, such as neutropenia and fluid retention, nausea, vomiting, hypersensitivity, and anemia. Direct comparisons with paclitaxel will provide further details on this newly approved anti-cancer drug.
Publication Name: Medical Letter on Drugs and Therapeutics
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0025-732X
Year: 1996
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