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Overview of clinical trials with epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors in advanced non-small cell lung cancer
1Sarah Cannon Cancer Center and Tennessee Oncology, PLLC, Nashville, TN, USA.
Objectives:
To provide an overview of the clinical development of ZD1839 and other epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Data Sources:
Research articles and abstracts.
Conclusions:
Increased understanding of cancer biology has led to the development of multiple targeted agents to evaluate clinically in the treatment of various cancers. The EGFR inhibitors appear promising in the treatment of NSCLC. ZD1839 has shown activity and symptom and quality-of-life improvements in two large phase II trials. Ongoing and future trials will continue to explore the optimal use of ZD1839 and other EGFR inhibitors in the treatment of NSCLC.
Implications For Nursing Practice:
Several investigational EGFR inhibitors are likely to become commercially available over the next few years. Nurses should be knowledgeable regarding these agents to provide appropriate patient and family education and to assure safe drug delivery.
Insights
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors show promise for treating advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). ZD1839 demonstrated activity and improved quality of life in phase II trials, with ongoing research for optimal use.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Targeted Therapy
Background:
- Advances in cancer biology have spurred the development of targeted therapies.
- Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors represent a promising class of targeted agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical development of ZD1839 and other EGFR inhibitors for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Main Methods:
- Literature review of research articles and abstracts.
Main Results:
- ZD1839 has exhibited clinical activity in phase II trials for NSCLC.
- Improvements in symptoms and quality of life were observed with ZD1839 treatment.
Conclusions:
- EGFR inhibitors are a promising therapeutic option for NSCLC.
- Further trials are investigating the optimal application of ZD1839 and similar agents.
- Nurses require education on these emerging therapies for patient care and safe administration.
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