Gefitinib ('Iressa', ZD1839) and new epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors.

摘要: The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a promising target for cancer therapy and number of EGFR-targeted agents have been developed. Those most advanced in development are the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors gefitinib ('Iressa', ZD1839) erlotinib ('Tarceva', OSI-774), monoclonal antibody cetuximab ('Erbitux', IMC-C225). This review provides clinical overview these agents, highlighting their antitumour activities different tumour types. Epidermal receptor-targeted generally well tolerated not typically associated with severe adverse events often seen cytotoxic chemotherapy. Gefitinib agent extensive experience, particularly non-small-cell lung (NSCLC). Recently, became first-approved agent, use patients previously treated NSCLC Japan, USA other countries. Further studies required to explore full potential novel either as monotherapy or combination therapy.