Platinum analogs of clinical interest

Eight platinum analogs including complexes containing two isomeric forms of 1,2-diaminocyclohexane have received preliminary clinical trials. Dosage and limiting toxicity have been identified for racemic malonato-1,2-diaminocyclohexaneplatinum(II) (PHM) and its trans(-)-1,2-diaminocyclohexane isomer (neo-PHM). Dosage and toxicity for racemic sulfato-1,2-diaminocyclohexaneplatinum(II) have been identified and preliminary dosage data for the trans(-)-1,2-diaminocyclohexane isomer are presented. Of the four remaining compounds, three have been abandoned due to toxicity or lack of promise as antitumor agents and the fourth is not being pursued actively at the present time. Further trials of PHM, and especially the neo-PHM isomer, in combination with standard agents seem indicated and are underway. The search for platinum analogs of clinical interest may yet identify analogs significantly superior in effectiveness and safety to cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II).