Gefitinib: a review of its use in the management of advanced non-small-cell lung cancer.

摘要: Gefitinib (Iressa), the first commercially available epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase (EGFR-TK) inhibitor, is indicated in management of patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, approved uses differ between countries; most markets, gefitinib for third-line use only (e.g. US, Canada and Switzerland), although some it both second- Japan Australia) and, additionally, considered unsuitable chemotherapy Indonesia Philippines). Few treatment options exist inoperable NSCLC who have failed platinum-based docetaxel chemotherapies. represents a significant advance this population; once-daily, oral dosage 250 mg/day was well tolerated, produced objective tumour responses disease stabilisation, improved disease-related symptoms quality life. It also overall survival outcomes that compared favourably historical similar group treated three four different regimens. These findings been supported by observations from global compassionate-use programme. Ongoing planned clinical trials are designed to confirm and/or further define role drug above other settings.