Brief communication: use of the multitargeted antifolate pemetrexed (Alimta) in genitourinary cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Pemetrexed (Alimta) is a novel, multitargeted antifolate agent.
• It exhibits broad activity across diverse solid tumors, including genitourinary malignancies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the activity of pemetrexed in solid tumors.
• To highlight its efficacy in combination with other agents like gemcitabine.
• To underscore the need for further investigation in advanced and adjuvant settings.

Main Methods:

• Review of preclinical and clinical data on pemetrexed.
• Analysis of pemetrexed's efficacy as a single agent and in combination therapies.
• Evaluation of its role in advanced and adjuvant cancer treatment.

Main Results:

• Pemetrexed demonstrates broad antitumor activity in various solid tumors.
• Clinically relevant activity is observed when pemetrexed is combined with other agents, such as gemcitabine.
• The agent shows potential for use in both advanced and adjuvant cancer treatment scenarios.

Conclusions:

• Pemetrexed is a promising antifolate agent with significant activity in solid tumors.
• Combination therapy with pemetrexed, particularly with gemcitabine, warrants further clinical investigation.
• Continued research is essential to define the optimal role of pemetrexed in advanced and adjuvant cancer care.