Oxaliplatin in tumors other than colorectal cancer

Oxaliplatin (Eloxatin) has demonstrated significant activity in a variety of tumor types in addition to colorectal cancer. Several studies have reported on the effectiveness of oxaliplatin as single-agent treatment or in combination with cisplatin (Platinol) or paclitaxel (Taxol) in pretreated advanced ovarian cancer patients, with promising data reported for the combination of oxaliplatin and cisplatin as first-line therapy. Other small studies have shown the activity of single-agent oxaliplatin in anthracycline-resistant metastatic breast cancer and refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Data have also demonstrated the activity of oxaliplatin in combination with gemcitabine (Gemzar) in advanced pancreatic cancer. In recurrent germ-cell cancer, a "biplatin" regimen of oxaliplatin plus cisplatin was found to be effective salvage therapy. Data from these studies indicate that oxaliplatin is active in both platinum-resistant disease and in tumor types that have previously been unresponsive to platinum treatment. Moreover, it enhances the effect of cisplatin or carboplatin, which is a striking demonstration of differing mechanisms of action. Ongoing and planned trials will evaluate the efficacy of oxaliplatin in other disease settings and combinations.