Docetaxel (Taxotere) in combination with platinum-based regimens in non- small cell lung cancer: Results and future developments

The combination of docetaxel (Taxotere; Rhone-Poulenc Rorer, Antony, France) with cisplatin is feasible, has manageable toxicity, and is active in stage IIIB/IV non-small cell lung cancer. The four phase II trials completed to date show response rates ranging from 32% to 48% and median survival durations of 8 to 13 months. Based on these results, regimens combining 75 to 100 mg/m² docetaxel with 75 to 100 mg/m² cisplatin are now being assessed in randomized phase III comparisons with platinum-containing combinations. The combination of docetaxel and carboplatin also has promising activity, with response rates of 48% (1 complete response and 12 partial responses) seen in 27 evaluable patients. Overall, this combination is also well tolerated. However, it will be necessary to use both docetaxel/platinum regimens at earlier stages in the disease if a significant impact is to be made on survival.