Vindesine in the treatment of malignant mesothelioma: a phase II study

Vindesine (VDS) is a new semisynthetic vinca alkaloid which has demonstrated therapeutic activity against a variety of solid tumors. A phase II trial of this agent was performed in patients with advanced malignant mesothelioma. VDS at a dose of 3 mg/m2 was given iv once weekly for 4-6 weeks and then every 2 weeks thereafter. Only one of 17 evaluable patients had a partial remission, lasting 5 months (95% confidence limits, 0%-17%). Toxic effects of VDS included leukopenia, peripheral neuropathy, and alopecia. VDS has minimal activity in malignant mesothelioma.