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Lapatinib: a sword with two edges

László Kopper1

  • 1Ist Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, Ulloi út 26, 1085, Budapest, Hungary. kopper@korb1.sote.hu

Pathology Oncology Research : POR
|April 15, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Lapatinib, an oral dual tyrosine kinase inhibitor, shows good tolerability and effectiveness in advanced breast cancer, including brain metastases. It is active in combination therapies and against resistant tumors.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Lapatinib is an oral dual tyrosine kinase inhibitor targeting Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 1 (EGFR1) and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2).
  • Previous studies indicated that lapatinib is well tolerated with manageable side effects and low cardiotoxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the clinical effectiveness of lapatinib in advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
  • To explore the efficacy of lapatinib in treating brain metastases and in combination therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Review of Phase I, II, and III clinical trials investigating lapatinib.
  • Analysis of data on drug tolerability, adverse effects, and efficacy in various cancer settings.

Main Results:

  • Lapatinib demonstrated clinical effectiveness in advanced/metastatic breast cancer and showed potential against brain metastases.
  • The drug is active in combination with trastuzumab, effective in trastuzumab-resistant patients, and exhibits synergistic action with capecitabine.

Conclusions:

  • Lapatinib is a well-tolerated and effective therapeutic option for advanced breast cancer, including cases with brain metastases.
  • Ongoing trials are exploring lapatinib's potential in novel combinations and against other cancer types.

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