Novel and Expanded Oncology Drug Approvals of 2016-PART 1: New Options in Solid Tumor Management

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Cancer Biology

Background:

• Nonradiologic medical management of solid tumors has evolved significantly.
• Advances in cancer biology have led to new targeted therapies, monoclonal antibodies, and immunotherapies.
• Practicing oncologists require updated knowledge on new drug mechanisms, toxicities, and optimal use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review novel drugs and expanded indications for solid tumor treatment approved in 2016.
• To provide oncologists with essential information for clinical decision-making.
• To discuss drug indications, mechanisms of action, trial data, toxicities, and special populations.

Main Methods:

• Review of US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approvals in 2016 for solid malignancies.
• Analysis of pivotal trial data for newly approved and expanded-use anticancer agents.
• Synthesis of information on drug indications, mechanisms, toxicities, and clinical contexts.

Main Results:

• In 2016, three novel drugs (olaratumab, atezolizumab, rucaparib) were approved for specific solid tumors.
• The use of previously approved agents, including atezolizumab, was expanded to 11 new patient populations.
• Approvals encompassed diverse therapeutic classes: immune checkpoint inhibitors, targeted therapies, monoclonal antibodies, and cytotoxic agents.

Conclusions:

• The landscape of solid tumor treatment expanded considerably in 2016 with new drug approvals and indications.
• Understanding the nuances of these diverse therapeutic options is crucial for effective cancer care.
• This review equips oncologists with knowledge to optimize treatment planning for patients with solid tumors.