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ZD1839 (Iressa) in non-small cell lung cancer
1Department of Thoracic/Head and Neck Medical Oncology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030, USA. rherbst@mail.mdanderson.org
Abstract:
Despite the advent of cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the prognosis for this patient population remains poor. Novel biologically targeted agents currently in development have the potential for greater efficacy against NSCLC, and possibly less toxicity than is associated with conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is recognized as a potentially useful target, and the small molecule, orally active EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor ZD1839 (Iressa) is currently the furthest along in clinical development of the anti-EGFR agents. This review summarizes the currently available clinical data on the use of ZD1839 in the treatment of NSCLC.
Insights
Despite advances in chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), patient outcomes remain poor. This review examines ZD1839 (Iressa), an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor, for NSCLC treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has a poor prognosis despite cisplatin-based chemotherapy.
- Novel targeted therapies offer potential for improved efficacy and reduced toxicity compared to traditional chemotherapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current clinical data on ZD1839 (Iressa) for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment.
- To evaluate the role of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as a therapeutic target in NSCLC.
Main Methods:
- Review of available clinical trial data for ZD1839 in NSCLC patients.
- Analysis of ZD1839's efficacy and safety profile as an EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor.
Main Results:
- ZD1839 (Iressa) is an orally active small molecule inhibitor targeting EGFR.
- Early clinical data suggests potential therapeutic benefit in NSCLC treatment.
Conclusions:
- ZD1839 represents a promising targeted agent for NSCLC.
- Further clinical development is warranted to establish its role in NSCLC therapy.