Phase I clinical trial of taxotere administered as either a 2-hour or 6-hour intravenous infusion

A novel adjuvant drug-device combination tissue scaffold for radical prostatectomy

Prostate cancer is a leading cause of death in men and despite improved surgical procedures that aid tumor resection, the risk of recurrence after surgery as a result of positive resection margins remains significant. Adjuvant chemotherapy is often required but this is associated with toxicity. Improved ways of delivering highly toxic chemotherapeutic drugs in a more controlled and targeted manner after the prostate has been removed during surgery could reduce the risk of recurrence and avoid systemic toxicity. The aim of this study was to develop a novel drug-device combination tissue scaffold that can be used to deliver the chemotherapeutic agent, docetaxel, into the tissue cavity that is created following radical prostatectomy. The device component investigated consisted of highly porous, poly(dl-lactide-co-glycolide) microparticles made using thermally induced phase separation. A facile method was established for loading docetaxel with high efficiency within one hour. Sustained drug release was observed from the microparticles when placed into a dynamic system simulating tissue perfusion. The drug released from the microparticles into perfusates collected at regular time intervals inhibited colony formation and exhibited sustained cytotoxicity against 3D spheroids of PC3 prostate cancer cells over 10 days. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the concept of combining docetaxel with the biodegradable microparticles at the point of care is technically feasible for achieving an effective drug-device combination tissue scaffold. This approach could provide an effective new approach for delivering adjuvant chemotherapy following radical prostatectomy.

Development of RP-HPLC method for simultaneous determination of docetaxel and curcumin in rat plasma: Validation and stability

The purpose of the present research was to develop a suitable, simple, precise, accurate, robust, and reproducible RP-HPLC method for a reliable simultaneous quantification of docetaxel (DTX) and curcumin (CCM) in rat plasma samples using paclitaxel (PTX) as an internal standard. The samples were assayed by the Agilent 1260 Infinity HPLC instrument using a Capcell Pak C₈ column (4.6 mm × 150 mm, 5 µm) under isocratic conditions. The mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile and triple distilled water (40/60, v/v) with a flow rate of 1.0 ml/min. The eluent was monitored at 230 nm for simultaneous measurement of curcumin and docetaxel. The method was validated by determining system suitability, selectivity, sensitivity, linearity, inter-day and intra-day precision, accuracy, robustness, and stability in accordance with the guidelines of the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The developed chromatographic method proved to be simple, precise, accurate, robust and reproducible. Moreover, the samples showed stability at room temperature over a period of 48 h. Thus, this method would be employed for routine simultaneous quantification of docetaxel and curcumin in rat plasma samples.

Review : Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the taxanes

Objectives. To review the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of docetaxel and paclitaxel.

Data Sources. We reviewed the literature through a MEDLINE search from 1982 to 1996. The terms docetaxel, paclitaxel, taxanes, and taxoids were used in the search. Relevant articles cited in literature obtained by MEDLINE searching, as well as new articles published in early 1997 in specific oncology journals, were also considered.

Data Extraction. We have reviewed the current literature with regard to the chemistry, mechanisms of action and pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clini cal use, adverse effects, drug interactions, formula tion, dosage, administration, and pharmaceutical is sues of the taxanes.

Conclusion. Both docetaxel and paclitaxel are novel antineoplastic agents with significant activity in many types of cancer. The pharmacokinetics of both agents are best characterized by a three-compartment disposition profile. However, the pharmacokinetics of paclitaxel, not docetaxel, are non-linear and can be described by a saturation process in distribution and elimination. The nonlinearity appears to be associated more frequently with shorter infusions and/or higher doses. There is evidence suggesting that the time duration of paclitaxel concentrations maintained above 0.1 μM/L (T>0.1 μM ) is associated with improved survival and development of toxicity. On the other hand, currently there is no information relating opti mal systemic exposure of docetaxel to efficacy and toxicity. In addition, these pharmacokinetic-pharma codynamic relationship may change with therapy with antineoplastic agents and other agents adminis tered concurrently, and necessitates additional phar macokinetic-pharmacodynamic investigations.

Docetaxel in hepatic impairment

Purpose. The primary objective of this paper is to provide a brief overview of docetaxel pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, indications, and drug interactions, concentrating on their relationship with docetaxel use in patients with hepatic impairment.

Data Sources. The literature was reviewed through a MEDLINE search from 1986 to 2000. Relevant articles cited in literature obtained by MEDLINE searching were also considered. The following terms were searched: hepatic impairment, liver failure, Taxotere, and docetaxel. The search was restricted to the English language.

Data Extraction. The current literature is reviewed in regard to docetaxel pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, dosing, efficacy, adverse effects, and drug interactions and with a special emphasis on docetaxel use in patients with hepatic impairment.

Data Synthesis. Docetaxel has a wide spectrum of clinical activity and is used frequently in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer, NSCLC, ovarian cancer and cancer of the head and neck. The dose-limiting toxicity of docetaxel is neutropenia. Docetaxel is metabolized in the liver and elevations in hepatic enzymes can predict a reduced clearance of docetaxel, which is associated with an increased incidence of neutropenia. Based on population pharmacokinetic modeling, docetaxel can be safely administered in patients with elevated hepatic enzymes if the dose is reduced on the first cycle.

Docetaxel-induced pericardial effusion

Hypersensitivity reactions, cumulative fluid retention, and neurotoxicity are frequently seen toxicities related to docetaxel. Fluid retention may be present as edema, weight gain, or third place fluid collection. Pericardial effusion is rarely seen with docetaxel treatment. We report a 58-year-old female patient who was presented with pericardial tamponade after three cycles of docetaxel therapy.

Pharmacokinetics, dynamics and toxicity of docetaxel: Why the Japanese dose differs from the Western dose

Docetaxel (Taxotere®) has been one of the most important chemotherapeutic drugs for cancer treatment since 1996. Although a large number of clinical studies have been conducted in various cancer fields, there is a discrepancy in the standard dose between Japan and Western countries. This article reviews the pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and toxicological profiles of docetaxel, and explains why there exists an ethnic difference in dose, and further discusses which direction we should go forward to solve this problem. The original recommended dose was 100 mg/m² every 3 weeks in US and European populations, while a Japanese phase I study suggested the recommended dose as 60 mg/m² every 3 weeks. A prospective population pharmacokinetic analysis of docetaxel conducted in both the USA/Europe and Japan, indicated an absence of ethnic difference in the pharmacokinetics. Both analyses demonstrated that docetaxel clearance is related to α1-acid glycoprotein level, hepatic function, age and body surface area. The relationship was observed between increasing docetaxel dose and increased tumor response rates across the dose range of 60 to 100 mg/m². The area under the serum concentration time curve (AUC) of docetaxel at the first cycle was significantly related to time to progression. Hematological toxicities were well correlated with the AUC of docetaxel, and severe hematological toxicities were more frequently observed in Japanese patients treated with 60 mg/m², compared to the US/European patients treated with 75–100 mg/m² dose. The Japanese population seems more susceptible to the toxicity of docetaxel. A docetaxel dose of 75 mg/m² is now standard not only in global trials but also in recent Japanese trials. Although the optimal dose of docetaxel is still unclear, we need to continue to seek the appropriate dose of docetaxel depending on patient status and the goals of chemotherapy.

Taxanes: their impact on gynecologic malignancy

The use of taxanes in the treatment of gynecologic malignancies has expanded tremendously over the past 30 years. Both paclitaxel and docetaxel have unique microtubule stabilizing, antiangiogenic and radiation sensitizing properties that endow them with remarkable activity as chemotherapeutic agents. As research into the appropriate dose, timing, treatment interval, and response rates have been studied, they have emerged as one of the most active agents available in the treatment of gynecologic cancer. The body of research on taxanes continues to expand especially with regard to the use of taxanes in alternative formulations and in combination with newer treatments or routes of treatment. This review focuses on the development of taxanes as an effective therapy in the treatment of gynecologic cancers and data currently available in the literature regarding their efficacy. Future directions of taxane-based chemotherapy with regards to ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancers are also addressed. There is little doubt that taxane-based chemotherapy will remain an integral part of the treatment of gynecologic cancer for the foreseeable future.

Development and optimization of oil-filled lipid nanoparticles containing docetaxel conjugates designed to control the drug release rate in vitro and in vivo

Three docetaxel (DX) lipid conjugates: 2′-lauroyl-docetaxel (C12-DX), 2′-stearoyl-docetaxel (C18-DX), and 2′-behenoyl-docetaxel (C22-DX) were synthesized to enhance drug loading, entrapment, and retention in liquid oil-filled lipid nanoparticles (NPs). The three conjugates showed ten-fold higher solubility in the liquid oil phase Miglyol 808 than DX. To further increase the drug entrapment efficiency in NPs, orthogonal design was performed. The optimized formulation was composed of Miglyol 808, Brij 78, and Vitamin E tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate (TPGS). The conjugates were successfully entrapped in the reduced-surfactant NPs with entrapment efficiencies of about 50%–60% as measured by gel permeation chromatography (GPC) at a final concentration of 0.5 mg/mL. All three conjugates showed 45% initial burst release in 100% mouse plasma. Whereas C12-DX showed another 40% release over the next 8 hours, C18-DX and C22-DX in NPs showed no additional release after the initial burst of drug. All conjugates showed significantly lower cytotoxicity than DX in human DU-145 prostate cancer cells. The half maximal inhibitory concentration values (IC₅₀) of free conjugates and conjugate NPs were comparable except for C22-DX, which was nontoxic in the tested concentration range and showed only vehicle toxicity when entrapped in NPs. In vivo, the total area under the curve (AUC_0–∞) values of all DX conjugate NPs were significantly greater than that of Taxotere, demonstrating prolonged retention of drug in the blood. The AUC_0–∞ value of DX in Taxotere was 8.3-fold, 358.0-fold, and 454.5-fold lower than that of NP-formulated C12-DX, C18-DX, and C22-DX, respectively. The results of these studies strongly support the idea that the physical/chemical properties of DX conjugates may be fine-tuned to influence the affinity and retention of DX in oil-filled lipid NPs, which leads to very different pharmacokinetic profiles and blood exposure of an otherwise potent chemo-therapeutic agent. These studies and methodologies may allow for improved and more potent nanoparticle-based formulations.

Complement activation by polyethoxylated pharmaceutical surfactants: Cremophor-EL, Tween-80 and Tween-20

Immunosafety analysis of pharmaceutical surfactants is an important step in understanding the complex mechanisms by which they induce side effects in susceptible patients. This paper provides experimental evidences that polyethoxylated surfactants, Cremophor-EL and Tween-80, also known as Polysorbate-80, activate the complement system in vitro, in normal human serum and plasma. They appeared to be more efficient reactogens than their structural homolog, Tween-20. Cremophor-EL and Tween-80 promoted the generation of biologically active complement products, C3a, C5a and C5b-9. Consistently, Paclitaxel and Taxotere (Docetaxel), pharmaceuticals formulated in Cremophor-EL and Tween-80, activated the complement system in similar extent. Moreover, comparison of serum reactivity against the drug-loaded and drug-free formulations exhibited a significant linear correlation. Taken together, these results are consistent with the hypothesis that therapeutic side effects, such as acute hypersensitivity and systemic immunostimulation, caused by intravenous nanomedicines containing polyethoxylated detergents such as Cremophor-EL and Tween-80, can be attributed to complement activation-derived inflammatory mediators.

Phase Ib study of CP-868,596, a PDGFR inhibitor, combined with docetaxel with or without axitinib, a VEGFR inhibitor

BACKGROUND

Tumoural interstitial hypertension, possibly modulated by platelet-derived and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (PDGFR and VEGFR), may mediate resistance to chemotherapy.

METHODS

Forty-eight patients with advanced solid tumours received oral PDGFR inhibitor CP-868,596 (60-100 mg twice daily (BID)) and docetaxel (75-100 mg m⁻²), or CP-868,596 (60 mg BID), docetaxel (75 mg m⁻²), and VEGFR inhibitor axitinib (5 mg BID).

RESULTS

The CP-868,596/docetaxel was escalated as above. The CP-868,596/docetaxel/axitinib was not dose escalated because of increased incidence of mucositis-like adverse events (AEs) with concurrent neutropenia relative to that expected for docetaxel. All tested regimens were tolerable, including 100 mg BID CP-868,596 (recommended phase II dose) plus 100 mg m⁻² docetaxel (maximum approved dose). Most treatment-emergent AEs were mild-moderate and reversible, commonly including nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, constipation, fatigue, and anaemia (CP-868,596/docetaxel), and hypertension, lethargy, diarrhoea, and fatigue (CP-868,596/docetaxel/axitnib). Pharmacokinetics were unaffected by co-administration. Twenty-one patients achieved stable disease, including all seven evaluable on CP-868,596/docetaxel/axitinib. All nine CP-868,596/docetaxel/axitinib patients received therapy for a median of six (range, 3-16) cycles.

CONCLUSIONS

The CP-868,596/docetaxel was well tolerated, but increased efficacy was not observed. Addition of axitinib delivered greater benefits than expected in the number of patients achieving prolonged stable disease with a moderate increase in AEs.

Biodistribution and radiation dosimetry of 11C-labelled docetaxel in cancer patients

PURPOSE

Docetaxel is an important chemotherapeutic agent used for the treatment of several cancer types. As radiolabelled anticancer agents provide a potential means for personalized treatment planning, docetaxel was labelled with the positron emitter (11)C. Non-invasive measurements of [(11)C]docetaxel uptake in organs and tumours may provide additional information on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the drug docetaxel. The purpose of the present study was to determine the biodistribution and radiation absorbed dose of [(11)C]docetaxel in humans.

METHODS

Biodistribution of [(11)C]docetaxel was measured in seven patients (five men and two women) with solid tumours using PET/CT. Venous blood samples were collected to measure activity in blood and plasma. Regions of interest (ROI) for various source organs were defined on PET (high [(11)C]docetaxel uptake) or CT (low [(11)C]docetaxel uptake). ROI data were used to generate time-activity curves and to calculate percentage injected dose and residence times. Radiation absorbed doses were calculated according to the MIRD method using OLINDA/EXM 1.0 software.

RESULTS

Gall bladder and liver demonstrated high [(11)C]docetaxel uptake, whilst uptake in brain and normal lung was low. The percentage injected dose at 1 h in the liver was 47 +/- 9%. [(11)C]docetaxel was rapidly cleared from plasma and no radiolabelled metabolites were detected. [(11)C]docetaxel uptake in tumours was moderate and highly variable between tumours.

CONCLUSION

The effective dose of [(11)C]docetaxel was 4.7 microSv/MBq. As uptake in normal lung is low, [(11)C]docetaxel may be a promising tracer for tumours in the thoracic region.

Evaluation of the Combination of Docetaxel/Carboplatin in Patients with Metastatic or Recurrent Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck (SCCHN): A Southwest Oncology Group Phase II Study

Carboplatin/docetaxel chemotherapy was evaluated in advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). Eligibility included patients with recurrent, persistent, or metastatic SCCHN with Zubrod performance status 0-2. Docetaxel 65 mg/m(2) and carboplatin (AUC of 6) were given IV in a 21-day cycle to 68 patients. Response probability was 25 percent (95%CI: 15-38). The major toxicity observed was neutropenia, with 36 patients (61 percent) experiencing Grade 3 or worse. Median progression-free survival was 3.8 months (95%CI, 3.1-4.8) Median overall survival was 7.4 months (95%CI, 6.2-8.9). The results of this study suggest this regimen is active for outpatient treatment of recurrent SCCHN patients with good performance status.

Therapeutic Strategy for Treatment of Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Objective:

To review the current practices for metastatic non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) management and highlight the latest progress.

Data Sources:

A literature review using HighWire Press (1960–May 2008) was conducted using the following key words: non–small cell lung cancer, chemotherapy. supportive care, therapeutic strategy, quality of life (QOL), and targeted therapies.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

Review articles, clinical trials, and case reports, as well as the references of those articles, were reviewed. Statistical significance and number of patients included in the studies were some of the aspects that were considered seriously. Response rates, overall survival, and progression-free survival were the major data considered.

Data Synthesis:

The therapeutic management of metastatic NSCLC has undergone a profound evolution over the past 10 years. The positive impact of chemotherapy on survival compared with supportive care atone has been demonstrated by several meta-analyses. The development of third-generation agents with better efficacy/toxicity ratios, such as vinorelbine, paclitaxel, docetaxel, gemcitabine, and pemetrexed, has led to improved therapeutic management of NSCLC, especially when tailored to patients' comorbidities and performance status. First-line platinum-based combinations remain the standard of care, with median survival 8 months and 1-year survival 35%, but no particular combination has yet shown superiority. First-line platinum regimens in combination with bevacizumab, a targeted inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor, have further improved NSCLC median survival. Moreover, second- and third-line treatments have evolved. The addition of small-molecule epidermal growth factor inhibitors and other targeted therapies has modified the pattern of NSCLC treatment. Specific management of the elderly and patients with poor performance status should be applied.

Conclusions:

Although there has been progress in the treatment of NSCLC, the gain in terms of clinical response and survival is still modest. Maintaining QOL and tailoring therapy for patients based on age, performance status, comorbidities, and toxicities, remain the first priority for clinicians.

Docetaxel in the management of prostate cancer: current standard of care and future directions

BACKGROUND

Advanced and metastatic prostate cancer continues to represent a significant healthcare burden. Since the publication of two randomized trials that showed significant survival and palliative benefits for men treated with docetaxel, this drug has become the treatment of choice for patients with metastatic castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).

OBJECTIVE

This review discusses the development and current use of docetaxel in metastatic CRPC, as well as future clinical applications.

METHODS

The current literature, meeting abstracts and ClinicalTrials.gov have been reviewed. The most relevant studies involving patients with prostate cancer receiving therapy with docetaxel, alone or in combination with other agents, have been summarised.

CONCLUSION

Docetaxel monotherapy is the approved treatment for patients with metastatic CRPC, and its association with other agents, such as targeted therapies, is currently under study. Several trials are currently ongoing to investigate the use of docetaxel in the early stages of disease, particularly in the neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings for patients with high-risk disease.

Phase 2 study of docetaxel in the treatment of childhood refractory acute leukemias: a Children's Oncology Group report

BACKGROUND

To determine the response rate and toxicity of docetaxel when administered as a 60 mg/m(2) dose by 1 hr intravenous (IV) infusion weekly x 3 weeks in children with relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

PROCEDURE

Patients who were under the age of 22-year-old at the time of the original ALL or AML diagnosis and in a second relapse were accrued from August 2002 to May 2005 for this Children's Oncology Group (COG) phase 2 study (ADVL0023). Ten patients with ALL and two patients with AML were enrolled.

RESULTS

There were no complete or partial responses observed. The most common grade 3 or 4 toxicities were hematologic followed by febrile neutropenia. One patient developed a dose limiting elevation in serum bilirubin, but no other significant hepatotoxicity was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Docetaxel was not effective therapy for children with relapsed ALL at the dose and schedule tested.

Phase II Clinical Trial of Docetaxel in Refractory Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Cervix

OBJECTIVE

A phase II study was conducted to evaluate the antitumor activity and adverse effects of docetaxel in patients with previously treated squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix.

METHODS

Eligible patients were to have measurable disease and not more than one prior chemotherapy regimen. Docetaxel 100 mg/m was administered intravenously over 1 hour. This treatment was repeated every 21 days until progression of disease or adverse effects prohibited further therapy.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven patients were entered onto this study, of whom 23 were eligible and evaluable. There were 2 (8.7%) partial responses. Eight patients (34.8%) had stable disease and 9 patients (39.1%) had increasing disease. The median time to progression was 3.8 months (range, 1.2-11.7 months), while median survival time was 7.0 months (range, 1.8-23.0 months). The most frequently reported adverse events were neutropenia, infection, gastrointestinal, and constitutional.

CONCLUSIONS

Docetaxel has minimal activity in refractory squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix at the dose and schedule tested.

A preclinical evaluation of pemetrexed and irinotecan combination as second-line chemotherapy in pancreatic cancer

Gemcitabine (GEM)-based chemotherapy is regarded as the standard treatment of pancreatic adenocarcinoma, but yields a very limited disease control. Very few studies have investigated salvage chemotherapy after failure of GEM or GEM-containing chemotherapy and preclinical studies attempting to widen the therapeutic armamentarium, not including GEM, are warranted. MIA PaCa2, CFPAC-1 and Capan-1 pancreatic cancer cell lines were treated with GEM, fluouracil (5-FU), docetaxel (DCT), oxaliplatin (OXP), irinotecan (CPT-11), pemetrexed (PMX) and raltitrexed (RTX) as single agent. Pemetrexed, inducing apoptosis with IC50s under the Cmax in the three lines tested, appeared the most effective drug as single agent. Based on these results, schedule- and concentration-dependent drug interactions (assessed using the combination index) of PMX/GEM, PMX/DCT and PMX-CPT-11 were evaluated. The combinatory study clearly indicated the PMX and CPT-11 combination as the most active against pancreatic cancer. To confirm the efficacy of PMX-CPT-11 combination, we extended the study to a panel of 10 pancreatic cancer cell lines using clinically relevant concentrations (PMX 10 microM; CPT-11 1 microm). In eight of 10 lines, the PMX-CPT-11 treatment significantly reduced cell recovery and increased both the subG1 and caspase 3/7 fraction. After a 5-day wash out period, an increased fraction of subG1 and caspase3/7 persisted in PMX-CPT-11-pretreated cell lines and a significant reduction in the clonogenicity capacity was evident. Finally, in vivo, the PMX/CPT-11 combination showed the ability to inhibit xenograft tumours growth as second-line therapy after GEM treatment. The PMX and CPT-11 combination displays a strong schedule-independent synergistic cytotoxic activity against pancreatic cancer, providing experimental basis for its clinical testing as salvage chemotherapy in pancreatic cancer patients.

A Phase II multi-institutional trial of chemoradiation using weekly docetaxel and erythropoietin for high-risk postoperative head and neck cancer patients

PURPOSE

To determine efficacy and toxicities of postoperative concurrent chemoradiation using docetaxel in high-risk head and neck cancer.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

High-risk patients were enrolled 2-8 weeks after surgery. Treatment included 60 Gy for 6 weeks with weekly docetaxel 25 mg/m(2) and erythropoietin alpha 40,000 U for hemoglobin < or =12 g/dL. Primary endpoints included locoregional control (LC), disease-free survival (DFS), and patterns of failure (POF). Secondary endpoints were toxicity and quality of life.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients were enrolled (14 male, 4 female), aged 24-70 years (median, 55 years). Primary site included oropharynx = 7, oral cavity = 8, hypopharynx = 1, and larynx = 2. Pathologic American Joint Committee on Cancer Stage was III = 3 patients, IV = 15 patients. High-risk eligibility included > or =2 positive lymph nodes = 13, extracapsular extension = 10, positive margins = 8 (11 patients with two or more risk factors). Docetaxel was reduced to 20 mg/m(2)/week after 5 patients had prolonged Grade 3 or higher mucositis. Overall, number of doses delivered was 2 of 6 = 1, 3 of 6 = 2, 4 of 6 = 2, 5 of 6 = 4, 6 of 6 = 9 patients. With median follow-up of 30 months (range, 5-66), 10 (56%) patients are alive and have no evidence of disease (NED); POF: three local recurrences (two with distant) and 1 distant only. One-year survival was 76%, median PFS and DFS had not been reached. Three-year LC was 82%. No Grade 3 or higher late toxicities were observed, although a few cases of prolonged mucositis and taste loss (>3 months) were seen, particularly at 25 mg/m(2)/week.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative radiation therapy with weekly docetaxel 20 or 25 mg/m(2)/week for high-risk postoperative head and neck cancer caused intolerable mucosal toxicity, prompting early study termination. Further studies should consider 15 mg/m(2). Actuarial 3-year LC is 82%, similar to cisplatin-based chemoradiation regimens. Distant metastasis remains an important issue requiring additional systemic interventions.

Alternative drug formulations of docetaxel: a review

The anticancer drug docetaxel (Taxotere) is formulated in the nonionic surfactant polysorbate 80 (Tween 80). Early in the clinical development of docetaxel, it became clear that docetaxel administration is associated with the occurrence of unpredictable (acute) hypersensitivity reactions and cumulative fluid retention. These side-effects have been attributed, in part, to the presence of polysorbate 80 and have consequently initiated research focused on the development of a less-toxic, better-tolerated polysorbate 80-free formulation of docetaxel. More recently, there is an increasing interest in developing a (polysorbate 80-free) docetaxel formulation that selectively targets malignant tissue, thereby increasing efficacy while decreasing the occurrence of side-effects related to wide and nonspecific body distribution. This review aims to discuss the preclinical and clinical results of pharmaceutical strategies [PEGylated (immuno)liposomal docetaxel, docetaxel-fibrinogen-coated olive oil droplets, docetaxel encapsulated nanoparticle-aptamer bioconjugates, submicronic dispersion formulation] to develop an alternative, solvent-free, delivery form for docetaxel characterized by increased efficacy and decreased toxicity.

The role of taxanes in the treatment of breast cancer

Among the novel chemotherapeutic agents introduced in the last decade, the taxanes have emerged as the most powerful group of compounds, and results available so far confirm that they will be remembered in the future as the breast cancer chemotherapy of the 1990s. Two taxanes are available (paclitaxel and docetaxel) and they share some characteristics, although they do have some significant differences both in terms of their preclinical profile and, most importantly, their clinical characteristics. There are three main clinical differences: different efficacy-toxicity ratio in relation to dose and schedule; different integrability in anthracycline- and taxane-containing regimens, secondary to differences in pharmacokinetic interactions with anthracyclines; and different level of synergism between each taxane and trastuzumab. In clinical practice, the taxanes are now standard therapy in metastatic breast cancer. Their role as monochemotherapy or in combination with anthracyclines in advanced breast cancer has suggested their potential therapeutic impact in the treatment of patients with early breast cancer. Recent results in the adjuvant setting show that taxanes, used either in combination or in sequential therapy, possess the capability to induce significant improvements, in particular in terms of survival; thus confirming the positive impact of taxanes on the natural history of breast cancer. However, further results of all completed or ongoing Phase III trials in the early setting will help define the optimal use of taxanes and maximise the induced benefits for breast cancer patients.

Assessment of tumor necrosis factor alpha blockade as an intervention to improve tolerability of dose-intensive chemotherapy in cancer patients

PURPOSE

Maintaining dose-intensity with chemotherapeutic agents is hindered by a number of adverse effects including asthenia/fatigue. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is one of the cytokines responsible for the fatigue and cachexia associated with malignancies. We used etanercept (TNF-decoy receptor) to maintain dose-intensity of weekly docetaxel.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Initially, 12 patients with advanced malignancies were randomly assigned to either docetaxel 43 mg/m2 weekly alone (cohort A) or the same docetaxel dose plus etanercept 25 mg subcutaneously twice weekly (cohort B). Subsequently, higher doses of docetaxel in combination with etanercept were evaluated. Pharmacokinetics (PKs), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) activation, and intracellular cytokines levels were measured. Patients completed weekly questionnaires quantifying asthenia/fatigue.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine of 36 intended docetaxel doses during the first cycle were delivered in cohort A, and 35 of 36 doses were delivered in cohort B (P = .055). Three cohort B patients received additional cycles in the absence of disease progression or severe toxicity, whereas no patients from cohort A received additional cycles. Escalation to docetaxel 52 mg/m2 weekly with etanercept resulted in neutropenia, not fatigue, as the limiting adverse effect, and the addition of filgrastim permitted the maintenance of dose-intensity in additional patients. Patients randomly selected to receive etanercept/docetaxel self-reported less fatigue (P < .001), and docetaxel PKs show no relevant influence of etanercept. NF-kappaB activation and increased expression of TNF-alpha were associated with increments in docetaxel dose. Antitumor activity was noticed exclusively in patients receiving etanercept.

CONCLUSION

The addition of etanercept is safe and had no impact on docetaxel concentrations. The significant improvement in tolerability and the trend toward preservation of dose-intensity suggests further exploration of TNF blockade as an adjunct to cancer therapies.

Docetaxel in the management of ovarian cancer

Standard first-line treatment for Stage IC-IV ovarian cancer is currently a platinum agent or a combination of a platinum agent with a taxane. The use of a taxane compound in addition to single-agent platinum is increasingly preferred to platinum alone. In countries such as the UK, the taxane paclitaxel has been approved by the government for first-line use. However, it has yet to receive US Food and Drug Administration approval in the USA for use in this context. Typically, in countries such as the UK, patients with advanced ovarian cancer receive a combination of paclitaxel and carboplatin first line, both drugs given 3-weekly by intravenous infusion. Subsequent trials have demonstrated that the second-generation taxane docetaxel can be used as a substitute for paclitaxel; sharing many of its actions but with a different toxicity profile. However, docetaxel has not yet received approval for standard use. Here, the clinical development of docetaxel and its present and future place in the management of ovarian cancer is discussed.

A Phase I/II Study of Exisulind in Combination with Docetaxel/Carboplatin in Patients with Metastatic Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer

Exisulind is a sulfone derivative of sulindac that induces apoptosis and demonstrates synergy with docetaxel in lung cancer models. This study evaluated the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetic interactions of exisulind and docetaxel/carboplatin in patients with metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Fifty-seven patients received 218 cycles of docetaxel (75 mg/m2) and carboplatin (area under the curve, 5.0) in combination with exisulind (125-250 mg orally twice daily). Two complete responses and 9 partial responses were observed among the 47 patients assessable for response (overall response rate, 23%). The median duration of response was 5.9 months and median survival was 9.4 months. The 1- and 2-year survival rates are 35% and 14%, respectively. The hematologic toxicities were consistent with those previously reported with docetaxel/carboplatin. The most common nonhematologic toxicities were mild to moderate fatigue, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. The addition of exisulind to the chemotherapy regimen did not interfere with the metabolism or elimination of docetaxel and vice versa, and docetaxel did not interfere with the pharmacokinetic parameters of exisulind. This trial did not allow direct comparison of patients receiving docetaxel/carboplatin with and without exisulind, but when compared with historical data of docetaxel/carboplatin alone, the addition of exisulind does not appear to enhance antitumor activity, duration of response, or survival. Although preclinical data demonstrate increased apoptosis and prolonged survival for the combination of exisulind and docetaxel, multiple clinical trials do not support further clinical development of this combination regimen in patients with advanced NSCLC.

A Phase I pharmacokinetic and biological correlative study of oblimersen sodium (genasense, g3139), an antisense oligonucleotide to the bcl-2 mRNA, and of docetaxel in patients with hormone-refractory prostate cancer

PURPOSE

To assess the feasibility of administering oblimersen sodium, a phosphorothioate antisense oligonucleotide directed to the Bcl-2 mRNA, with docetaxel to patients with hormone-refractory prostate cancer; to characterize the pertinent pharmacokinetic parameters, Bcl-2 protein inhibition in peripheral blood mononuclear cell(s) (PBMC) and tumor; and to seek preliminary evidence of antitumor activity.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Patients were treated with increasing doses of oblimersen sodium administered by continuous i.v. infusion on days 1 to 6 and docetaxel administered i.v. over 1 h on day 6 every 3 weeks. Plasma was sampled to characterize the pharmacokinetic parameters of both oblimersen and docetaxel, and Bcl-2 protein expression was measured from paired collections of PBMCs pretreatment and post-treatment.

RESULTS

Twenty patients received 124 courses of the oblimersen and docetaxel combination at doses ranging from 5 to 7 mg/kg/day oblimersen and 60 to 100 mg/m(2) docetaxel. The rate of severe fatigue accompanied by severe neutropenia was unacceptably high at doses exceeding 7 mg/kg/day oblimersen and 75 mg/m(2) docetaxel. Nausea, vomiting, and fever were common, but rarely severe. Oblimersen mean steady-state concentrations were 3.44 +/- 1.31 and 5.32 +/- 2.34 at the 5- and 7-mg/kg dose levels, respectively. Prostate-specific antigen responses were observed in 7 of 12 taxane-naïve patients, but in taxane-refractory patients no responses were observed. Preliminary evaluation of Bcl-2 expression in diagnostic tumor specimens was not predictive of response to this therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

The recommended Phase II doses for oblimersen and docetaxel on this schedule are 7 mg/kg/day continuous i.v. infusion days 1 to 6, and 75 mg/m(2) i.v. day 6, respectively, once every 3 weeks. The absence of severe toxicities at this recommended dose, evidence of Bcl-2 protein inhibition in PBMC and tumor tissue, and encouraging antitumor activity in HPRC patients warrant further clinical evaluation of this combination.

Docetaxel: a new active agent in the therapy of metastatic breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women, accounting for about 18% of female cancers, and over half a million new cases are diagnosed worldwide each year. Its incidence increases with age and is currently rising. Although the increased availability of screening programs has allowed earlier detection and treatment of primary breast cancers, many patients relapse with metastases after apparently successful treatment of their primary tumor and over 15,000 women in the UK and about 50,000 in the USA die from advanced disease each year. The natural course of breast cancer is very variable even after the development of metastases, and depends on a variety of tumor characteristics and prognostic factors. This is reflected in the large number of treatments currently employed. However, despite this wide choice and considerable research over the years, treatment of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) prolongs average survival times only slightly. Current therapy is aimed at achieving a balance between producing maximal tumor shrinkage to produce the most effective possible palliation of symptoms, and minimizing adverse effects. Anticancer chemotherapy is the preferred option in patients who do not respond to hormones, those with hormone-independent tumors, those with aggressive breast cancer subtypes. A variety of anticancer chemotherapy regimens, using both single and combined agents, have been shown to be effective in achieving tumor regression in MBC. Anthracyclines (doxorubicin, epirubicin) are the most active of the established monotherapies, typically producing response rates of 50-60% during initial (first-line) treatment for metastatic disease, but being effective in fewer than 25% of patients requiring second-line therapy. The drawbacks of anthracyclines include dose-limiting cumulative cardiotoxicity and the development of resistant tumor clones after the use of anthracyclines for adjuvant or first-line therapy, especially if subsequent courses are required within a year. The success of these established chemotherapeutic agents depends greatly on the number and location of metastatic sites. Lymph node and soft tissue secondaries tend to respond well, while visceral metastases (especially in the liver) carry a particularly poor prognosis despite treatment. The outlook for patients with metastases involving more than two organ systems is also bleak. Although some patients can live for years with metastatic disease, the average survival time in patients with MBC is 18-24 months, while in those with liver metastases, life expectancy averages only 6 months. High-dose anticancer chemotherapy with granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) or autologous bone marrow transplantation has allowed the dose intensity of anthracyclines to be increased, and has improved the response rate to about 70% in selected patients with MBC. However, this approach has not been proven to improve survival, involves the risk of greater toxicity and drug-related mortality, and patients with reduced clearance of anthracyclines due to hepatic dysfunction from liver metastases may not be suitable candidates. A number of new anticancer agents have also recently been introduced in an attempt to improve on the performance and avoid the tolerability problems associated with anthracyclines. Among these, antitubulin agents (taxoids and vinorelbine) have shown highly promising activity in MBC. This paper reviews the preclinical, phase I and phase II data for one taxoid, docetaxel. Docetaxel (Taxotere) belongs to the taxoid class of cytotoxic agents, the development of which began more than 20 years ago. In 1971, paclitaxel (Taxol) was identified as the active compound of the crude extract of the bark of the Pacific Yew tree Taxus brevifolia. However, at that time the development of paclitaxel was hampered because of the limited source of the drug and difficulties with isolation, extraction and formulation. The second active taxoid, docetaxel, was isolated by Potier et al. in 1986. Docetaxel is prepared from a non-cytotoxic precursor, extracted from the needles of the European Yew tree Taxus baccata, that is condensed with a chemically-synthesized side-chain. As the docetaxel precursor is freely available because of the regenerating capacity of the needles the development of docetaxel has thus been rapid.

Randomized Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Study of Docetaxel: Dosing Based on Body-Surface Area Compared With Individualized Dosing Based on Cytochrome P450 Activity Estimated Using a Urinary Metabolite of Exogenous Cortisol

Purpose

Docetaxel is metabolized by cytochrome P450 (CYP3A4) enzyme, and the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) is correlated with neutropenia. We developed a novel method for estimating the interpatient variability of CYP3A4 activity by the urinary metabolite of exogenous cortisol (6-beta-hydroxycortisol [6-β-OHF]). This study was designed to assess whether the application of our method to individualized dosing could decrease pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) variability compared with body-surface area (BSA) –based dosing.

Patients and Methods

Fifty-nine patients with advanced non–small-cell lung cancer were randomly assigned to either the BSA-based arm or individualized arm. In the BSA-based arm, 60 mg/m2 of docetaxel was administered. In the individualized arm, individualized doses of docetaxel were calculated from the estimated clearance (estimated clearance = 31.177 + [7.655 × 10−4 × total 6-β-OHF] − [4.02 × alpha-1 acid glycoprotein] − [0.172 × AST] − [0.125 × age]) and the target AUC of 2.66 mg/L · h.

Results

In the individualized arm, individualized doses of docetaxel ranged from 37.4 to 76.4 mg/m2 (mean, 58.1 mg/m2). The mean AUC and standard deviation (SD) were 2.71 (range, 2.02 to 3.40 mg/L · h) and 0.40 mg/L · h in the BSA-based arm, and 2.64 (range, 2.15 to 3.07 mg/L · h) and 0.22 mg/L · h in the individualized arm, respectively. The SD of the AUC was significantly smaller in the individualized arm than in the BSA-based arm (P < .01). The percentage decrease in absolute neutrophil count (ANC) averaged 87.1% (range, 59.0 to 97.7%; SD, 8.7) in the BSA-based arm, and 87.4% (range, 78.0 to 97.2%; SD, 6.1) in the individualized arm, suggesting that the interpatient variability in percent decrease in ANC was slightly smaller in the individualized arm.

Conclusion

The individualized dosing method based on the total amount of urinary 6-β-OHF after cortisol administration can decrease PK variability of docetaxel.

Comparison of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of docetaxel and Cisplatin in elderly and non-elderly patients: why is toxicity increased in elderly patients?

PURPOSE

Following phase I studies of docetaxel and cisplatin in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer, the recommended doses of docetaxel were different for elderly (> or = 75 years) and non-elderly (< 75 years) patients. To elucidate the mechanism of the difference, the pharmacokinetics of docetaxel and cisplatin were investigated in two phase II studies separately conducted in elderly and non-elderly patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-seven elderly and 25 non-elderly patients were treated with three weekly administrations of docetaxel and cisplatin every 4 weeks. Doses of docetaxel were 20 and 35 mg/m(2) for elderly and non-elderly patients, respectively. All patients received 25 mg/m(2) of cisplatin. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of docetaxel and cisplatin were compared in elderly and non-elderly patients.

RESULTS

There were no differences in pharmacokinetics of docetaxel or cisplatin between elderly versus non-elderly patients with regard to clearance and volume of distribution. In the pharmacodynamic analysis, neutropenia was positively correlated with the area under the concentration-time curve for docetaxel but not for cisplatin. In evaluating the relationship between neutropenia and the area under the concentration-time curve of docetaxel, elderly patients experienced greater neutropenia than those predicted by a pharmacodynamic model developed in non-elderly patients; the residual for prediction of the percent change in neutrophil count was -11.2% (95% CI, -21.8 to -0.5%).

CONCLUSION

The pharmacokinetics of docetaxel and unchanged cisplatin were not different between elderly and non-elderly patients. The elderly patients were more sensitive to docetaxel exposure than the non-elderly patients, resulting in the different recommended doses for the phase II studies.

Non-allergic nature of docetaxel-induced acute hypersensitivity reactions

Based on observations of a discrepancy between 'hypersensitivity' reactions to docetaxel (DT) and the clinical features of allergic reactions, we explored the hypothesis that DT-induced acute hypersensitivity reactions (AHRs) have a non-allergic origin. Forty cancer patients receiving DT and 16 patients receiving other potentially allergenic chemotherapeutic agents were included in the study. All DT patients received standard pre- and post-medication. Before, during and after administration of the drugs, clinical symptoms and signs were recorded, and serial blood sampling was performed for the first 2 cycles for all patients or in all subsequent cycles in case of AHRs. Plasma histamine and serum tryptase, two established drug allergy markers, were measured. Seventy-five chemotherapy sessions were evaluable. Nine patients on DT, two on paclitaxel (PT) and one on pegylated doxorubicin experienced an AHR during the first course of chemotherapy. In all cases, heart rate remained stable or increased, while arterial pressure was unchanged or raised; no hypotension or bradycardia was noted. All episodes resolved with discontinuation of drug and did not reappear during a re-challenge with the same agent 30 min later. Tryptase levels were normal in all pre- and post-exposure samples (post-exposure: 11.32+/-35.63 microg/l, normal values <13.5 microg/l). In all but one AHR-free PT, pre- and post-exposure histamine concentrations remained normal (post-exposure: 2.86+/-11.88 nM, normal values <10 nM). No eosinophilia or basophilia was observed. We conclude that 'hypersensitivity' reactions to DT seem not to be histamine or tryptase mediated; thus, their allergenic nature should be questioned. The underlying mechanism may be related to other biological processes such as the release of vasoactive molecules or non-histamine/tryptase-mediated allergy. If the former is demonstrated by further study, the safety of DT administration will be confirmed, and the pre- and post-medication practice might be revisited.

Phase I evaluation of docetaxel and topotecan for patients with advanced solid tumors

BACKGROUND

The authors administered a combination of docetaxel and topotecan with granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) support in a Phase I study to define the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of this regimen.

METHODS

Patients with advanced-stage solid tumors were eligible for this trial if they had a Zubrod performance status of </= 2 and normal renal, hepatic, and bone marrow function. No previous therapy with taxanes or topoisomerase inhibitors was allowed. The authors administered both docetaxel and topotecan in a dose-escalated manner until the MTD was reached. Docetaxel was given on Day 1 of each cycle before topotecan, which was administered intravenously on Days 1-3. Granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) support with 5 microg/kg subcutaneous injections was initiated on Day 4 and continued until the absolute granulocyte count recovered to 2000/microL. Treatment cycles were repeated every 21 days.

RESULTS

Of the 11 patients enrolled in the current study, all were evaluable for toxicity and 10 were evaluable for response. A median of three treatment cycles was received (range, one to nine treatment cycles). The dose-limiting toxicity was Grade 4 (according to the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Events [version 2.0]). neutropenia with fever. The MTD was 75 mg/m2 of docetaxel on Day 1 and 1.4 mg/m2 of topotecan on Days 1-3. There was one complete response and one partial response in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma and one partial response in a patient with small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). The response durations were 24 weeks, 29 weeks, and >/= 244 weeks, respectively. At the time of last follow-up, both patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma were still alive at 241 weeks and 244 weeks, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This trial demonstrated that a regimen of docetaxel and topotecan with G-CSF support was generally well tolerated and had promising activity in patients with nasopharyngeal and SCLC.

A phase II study of escalated-dose docetaxel with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor support in patients with advanced breast cancer

PURPOSE

Docetaxel is highly active in the treatment of patients with breast cancer. The principal dose-limiting toxicities of the 3-weekly regimen are neutropenia and febrile neutropenia. In a previous phase I dose-escalation study with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) support, the recommended dose was determined to be docetaxel 160 mg/m(2) 3-weekly. The objectives of this phase II study were to determine the response rate and toxicity of this dose and schedule, given as first-line in patients with advanced breast cancer. Mobilisation of peripheral blood stem cells (PBSCs) was also investigated.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eligible women had metastatic breast cancer and were aged 18-75 years with ECOG performance status < or =2. Strict criteria for liver function were followed, and adjuvant chemotherapy must have been completed at least 6 months previously. Treatment was docetaxel 160 mg/m(2) over 60-90 min every 21 days with G-CSF 5 micro g/kg/day until neutrophil recovery, for up to six cycles. A 3-day corticosteroid prophylaxis was given. Bloods samples to determine PBSC levels [CD34+, granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming cells (GM-CFC) and burst-forming units-erythroid (BFU-E)] were taken on days 6, 8, 9 and 11 following docetaxel.

RESULTS

Twenty-five women with median age 50 years (range 35-66) were included. Seventeen (68%) had previously received adjuvant chemotherapy. In total, 112 cycles were delivered (median four per patient), with dose reductions required in 12.5% of cycles. G-CSF was given for a median of 6 days. The median neutrophil nadir was 0.5 x 10(9)/l and occurred a median 5 days after treatment. The median duration of grade 3 or 4 neutropenia was 2 days (range 1-7). Grade 4 neutropenia occurred in 44% of patients, but there was only one episode of febrile neutropenia. Five patients were taken off study due to toxicities that included oedema, neurosensory toxicity and asthenia. Confirmed partial response was seen in nine patients (37.5%; 95% confidence interval 19% to 59%). CD34+ cells, GM-CFC and BFU-E levels peaked at day 8 following docetaxel administration. The median CD34+ cell peak was 6.5 x 10(4)/ml, with only 20% of patients <2 x 10(4)/ml, a level below which leukapheresis is not usually attempted.

CONCLUSIONS

Docetaxel 160 mg/m(2) was delivered with G-CSF support with a very low rate of febrile neutropenia. Non-haematological toxicity was significant, causing five patients to go off study. Effective mobilisation of PBSCs was seen. The response rate of 37.5% was less than that obtained in first-line studies using standard-dose docetaxel 100 mg/m(2), suggesting that there is no additional benefit in dose escalation of this cytotoxic agent in breast cancer patients using this schedule.

Radiotherapy with concomitant weekly docetaxel for Stages III/IV oropharynx carcinoma. Results of the 98-02 GORTEC Phase II trial

PURPOSE

We designed a prospective Phase II clinical trial to evaluate the addition of weekly chemotherapy using Docetaxel during standard radiation therapy in patients with Stages III and IV oropharynx carcinoma.

METHODS

A total of 63 patients have been entered in a Phase II multicenter trial. Radiotherapy delivered, with conventional fractionation, 70 Gy in 35 fractions. Patients received during the period of radiotherapy seven cycles of Docetaxel (20 mg/m2 each week).

RESULTS

Radiotherapy compliance was good in respect to total dose, treatment duration, and treatment interruption. The rate of Grade 3 and 4 mucositis was 84%. Grade 3 and 4 skin toxicity occurred in 53% of the patients. Hematologic toxicity was infrequent, with only a 5% rate of Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia. Three-year overall actuarial survival and disease-free survival rates were, respectively, 47% (95% CI = 39-68%) and 39% (95% CI = 30-57%). The local and regional control rate was 64%.

CONCLUSION

The adjunction of weekly Docetaxel to conventional radiotherapy is feasible. Mucositis and skin toxicity were the major acute toxic effects. Therapeutic results were similar to those observed with concomitant chemotherapy using platinum and/or 5-FU. Further trials using Docetaxel in combination with other cytotoxic agents are needed.

Reducing the time interval between cycles using standard doses of docetaxel and lenogastrim support

BACKGROUND

As a single agent, 100 mg/m(2) of docetaxel every 3 weeks remains the standard schedule in the first-line treatment for metastatic disease. At this dose level, the major limiting toxicity is neutropenia. The current study was conducted to assess the feasibility of reducing time intervals between cycles while delivering standard doses of docetaxel with granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF; lenograstim).

METHODS

In the first part of the study, 24 patients were randomized to receive 1 of 4 schedules: 100 mg/m(2) of docetaxel every 21 days without lenograstim; 100 mg/m(2) of docetaxel every 18 days with lenograstim; 100 mg/m(2) of docetaxel every 14 days with lenograstim; or 100 mg/m(2) of docetaxel every 10 days with lenograstim. In the second part of the study, 15 additional patients were included to confirm the feasibility of the recommended interval between cycles.

RESULTS

Of the 39 patients treated, 14 patients (36%) withdrew from therapy because of Grade 3 (according to standard World Health Organization criteria) nonhematologic limiting toxicities. Only 3 patients were treated in the 10-day interval arm and were withdrawn because of toxicity--1 patient had Grade 3 asthenia after the second cycle and 2 patients had Grade 3 dermatitis after 4 cycles. Of the 24 patients treated in the 14-day intervals, Grade 3 limiting toxicities occurred in 8 patients (33%), including dermatitis in 3 patients; diarrhea, myalgia/arthralgia, or asthenia in 4 patients; and ungual toxicity in 1 patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Introduction of G-CSF (lenograstim) as primary prophylaxis allowed the administration of docetaxel every 14 days with manageable toxicities. Further studies are now required to assess the impact in terms of response rates and survival in patients with cancer.

Pharmacological effects of formulation vehicles : implications for cancer chemotherapy

The non-ionic surfactants Cremophor EL (CrEL; polyoxyethyleneglycerol triricinoleate 35) and polysorbate 80 (Tween) 80; polyoxyethylene-sorbitan-20-monooleate) are widely used as drug formulation vehicles, including for the taxane anticancer agents paclitaxel and docetaxel. A wealth of recent experimental data has indicated that both solubilisers are biologically and pharmacologically active compounds, and their use as drug formulation vehicles has been implicated in clinically important adverse effects, including acute hypersensitivity reactions and peripheral neuropathy.CrEL and Tween 80 have also been demonstrated to influence the disposition of solubilised drugs that are administered intravenously. The overall resulting effect is a highly increased systemic drug exposure and a simultaneously decreased clearance, leading to alteration in the pharmacodynamic characteristics of the solubilised drug. Kinetic experiments revealed that this effect is primarily caused by reduced cellular uptake of the drug from large spherical micellar-like structures with a highly hydrophobic interior, which act as the principal carrier of circulating drug. Within the central blood compartment, this results in a profound alteration of drug accumulation in erythrocytes, thereby reducing the free drug fraction available for cellular partitioning and influencing drug distribution as well as elimination routes. The existence of CrEL and Tween 80 in blood as large polar micelles has also raised additional complexities in the case of combination chemotherapy regimens with taxanes, such that the disposition of several coadministered drugs, including anthracyclines and epipodophyllotoxins, is significantly altered. In contrast to the enhancing effects of Tween 80, addition of CrEL to the formulation of oral drug preparations seems to result in significantly diminished drug uptake and reduced circulating concentrations. The drawbacks presented by the presence of CrEL or Tween 80 in drug formulations have instigated extensive research to develop alternative delivery forms. Currently, several strategies are in progress to develop Tween 80- and CrEL-free formulations of docetaxel and paclitaxel, which are based on pharmaceutical (e.g. albumin nanoparticles, emulsions and liposomes), chemical (e.g. polyglutamates, analogues and prodrugs), or biological (e.g. oral drug administration) strategies. These continued investigations should eventually lead to more rational and selective chemotherapeutic treatment.

Docetaxel and ketoconazole in advanced hormone-refractory prostate carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Docetaxel has significant single-agent activity in patients with prostate carcinoma, and ketoconazole has activity as a second-line hormonal agent. In vitro, ketoconazole exhibits synergy with several chemotherapeutic agents. A potential drug interaction exists, however, because both docetaxel and ketoconazole are metabolized hepatically by the cytochrome p450 system (CYP3A4). The authors performed a Phase I study and a pharmacokinetic study evaluating the both tolerability of a docetaxel/ketoconazole combination as well as this potential drug interaction.

METHODS

For all initial patients, docetaxel was administered intravenously at a dose of 55 mg/m(2) over 1 hour every 21 days. Starting on Day 8 after their first docetaxel dose, cohorts of at least 3-5 new patients were enrolled to receive escalating doses of ketoconazole. When the maximally tolerated dose (MTD) of ketoconazole was reached, the subsequent cohort of patients received an escalating dose of docetaxel. Pharmacokinetic studies were performed after docetaxel infusions on Day 1 (prior to ketoconazole) and Day 22 (after starting ketoconazole).

RESULTS

Twenty-six patients were enrolled and completed at least 2 cycles of treatment. The MTD was ketoconazole 400 mg twice daily and docetaxel 55 mg/m(2). Dose-limiting toxicities included neutropenia and fatigue. Ketoconazole did not cause a consistent effect on docetaxel pharmacokinetics, although there was significant intrapatient and interpatient variability in serum levels.

CONCLUSIONS

The recommended Phase II dose for this combination is ketoconazole 400 mg twice daily and docetaxel 55 mg/m(2) every 21 days.

Docetaxel as Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Patients With Advanced Cervical Carcinoma

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of docetaxel as single-agent neoadjuvant chemotherapy in locoregionally advanced cervical carcinoma. Between April 1998 and August 2000, 38 untreated patients with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages IIB to IVA were entered onto this study. The median age was 44 years (range: 25-66 years). Stages: IIB 22 patients, IIIB 15 patients, and IVA 1 pt. Treatment consisted of docetaxel 100 mg/m2 IV infusion during 1 hour. Standard premedication with dexamethasone, diphenhydramine, and ranitidine was used. Cycles were repeated every 3 weeks for three courses, followed by radical surgery when it was judged appropriate, or definitive radiotherapy. Both staging and response assessment were performed by a multidisciplinary team. 106 cycles of therapy were administered; all patients were evaluable for TX, whereas 35 were evaluable for response (3 patients refused further treatment after the first cycle of therapy). Complete response (CR): 1 patient (3%); partial response: 11 patients (31%), for an overall objective response rate of 34% (95% CI: 15-53%); no change (NC): 16 patients (46%); and progressive disease: 7 patients (20%). Six patients (17%) underwent surgery and a pathologic CR was confirmed in 1 of them. The median time to treatment failure and the median survival have not been reached yet. The limiting toxicity was leukopenia in 25 patients (69%) (G1-G2: 14 patients, G3: 10 patients, and G4: 1 patient). Neutropenia: 28 patients (78%) (G1-G2: 10 patients, G3: 8 and G4: 10). Myalgias: 17 patients (47%) (G1-G2: 15 patients and G3: 2 patients). Emesis: 21 patients (55%) (G1-G2: 19 patients and G3: 2 patients). Alopecia G3: 13 patients (36%); rash cutaneous 26 patients (68%) (G1-G2: 22 patients and G3: 4 patients). There were no hypersensitivity reactions or fluid-retention syndrome. The received dose intensity was 91% of that projected. Docetaxel is an active drug against advanced cervical carcinoma with moderate toxicity. Further evaluation in association with other agents is clearly justified.

A phase I study of gemcitabine and docetaxel for advanced stage solid tumors

BACKGROUND

We conducted a phase I study to determine the maximum tolerated dose of docetaxel in combination with gemcitabine for patients with refractory solid tumors.

METHODS

From January 1998 to November 1999, we treated 28 patients on a phase I protocol with gemcitabine given at a constant dose of 800 mg/m2 i.v. over 30 minutes on days 1, 8, and 15. Docetaxel was administered by a phase I schedule over 1 hour on day 1 of a 28-day cycle with a starting dose of 50 mg/m2 and increased by increments of 10 mg/m2 based on dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) that occurred in the first cycle.

RESULTS

Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were the dose-limiting toxicities. The maximum tolerated dose was 60 mg/m2. The most significant nonhematologic toxicities included fatigue, nausea, vomiting, mucositis, and hypersensitivity reactions. There was one partial response at 15 months in a patient with gastric cancer and six patients with stable disease for 4.0 to 15.0 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The maximum tolerated dose of docetaxel with gemcitabine is 60 mg/m2. A Phase II study in selected primary sites is planned.

A phase I dose-escalation study of docetaxel with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor support in patients with solid tumours

BACKGROUND

Docetaxel is a widely active cytotoxic agent. The principal dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) of the 3-weekly regimen are neutropenia and febrile neutropenia. Use of prophylactic granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) may allow higher doses of docetaxel to be administered with potentially greater anticancer efficacy. The objectives of this study were to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and toxicity profile of docetaxel given with G-CSF support.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eligible patients had solid tumours and were aged 18-75 years with a WHO performance status of up to 2. Strict criteria for liver function were followed. Patients may have received one previous regimen of chemotherapy in addition to adjuvant chemotherapy. Cohorts of three to six patients received docetaxel over 60-90 min every 3 weeks, commencing at 110 mg/m(2) and escalating at 10 mg/m(2) increments. Patients also received G-CSF 5 micro g/kg/day until neutrophil recovery. A 3-day corticosteroid prophylaxis was given.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine patients with median age 55 years (range 29-75) were included. Fourteen (48%) had previously received chemotherapy. At the 170 mg/m(2) dose level (the MTD), two of three patients had DLTs and 160 mg/m(2) was determined to be the recommended dose. The principal DLTs were skin and neurosensory toxicity. Asthenia was frequent, especially at dose levels >/=140 mg/m(2). Grade 4 neutropenia occurred in only 10 patients (35%) and was not dose related, with febrile neutropenia in three patients (10%).

CONCLUSIONS

Docetaxel may be escalated considerably above standard doses when administered with G-CSF support. The recommended dose for phase II studies is 160 mg/m(2). With escalated-dose docetaxel, DLTs were non-haematological and qualitatively similar to the toxicity profile at standard doses.

Phase I study of weekly docetaxel and cisplatin concurrent with thoracic radiotherapy in Stage III non-small-cell lung cancer

PURPOSE

This is the first report of a Phase I study on concomitant weekly cisplatin and docetaxel chemotherapy with thoracic radiation for Stage III non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The study objectives were to determine the maximum tolerable dose (MTD) and dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) of docetaxel used in this regimen, and to evaluate the feasibility of weekly concurrent chemoradiotherapy.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

Patients with histologically proven and unresectable Stage III NSCLC were the subjects of this study. Cisplatin was administered at a fixed dose of 20 mg/m2, while the dose of docetaxel was increased from 0 to 30 mg/m2 in increments of 10 mg/m2. Chemotherapy was given on the first day of each week for 6 weeks. The primary tumor and regional lymph nodes were irradiated to 54 Gy, followed by an additional 9 Gy boost to the primary tumor, making the total dose 63 Gy at 1.8 Gy/fraction.

RESULTS

Sixteen men and 2 women with advanced NSCLC without prior treatment were enrolled. The median age of the group was 58 years (range 49-67). Three patients had Stage IIIa disease and 15 patients had IIIb disease. Dose-limiting Grade 3 esophagitis was encountered at a docetaxel dose level of 30 mg/m2 in 2 of 3 patients. No dose-limiting, nonhematologic toxicity occurred in the other patients and no dose-limiting hematologic toxicity occurred in any patient.

CONCLUSION

The treatment schedule for NSCLC was feasible, with the DLT being esophagitis. We determined the recommended dose of docetaxel to be 20 mg/m2 for a Phase II study when combined with weekly cisplatin and concomitant thoracic RT.

Phase I/II trial of docetaxel and vinorelbine in patients with non-small cell lung cancer previously treated with platinum-based chemotherapy

We conducted a phase I/II trial of the combination of docetaxel and weekly vinorelbine in patients with stage IIIB or IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who were refractory or resistant to platinum-based regimens. The objectives of the study were (1) to determine the maximum tolerated doses of docetaxel and weekly vinorelbine when given in combination and (2) to evaluate the response to and quantitative and qualitative toxicity of this combination of agents. Patients were required to have an ECOG performance status of 0 or 1, evaluable lesions, and no prior treatment with docetaxel or vinorelbine. A total of 30 patients were treated on this phase I/II study. Eight patients were treated at various doses on the phase I portion of the study. Twenty-two patients (11 males, 11 females, median age 64.5 years) were treated at the phase II dose of vinorelbine 15 mg/m(2) weekly with docetaxel 60 mg/m(2) on day 1 of a 21 day cycle. Twenty of these 22 patients enrolled at the phase II dose required dose modification or delay. Sixteen patients experienced absolute neutrophil count (ANC) <500/mm(3), and eight patients had neutropenic fever. Four patients experienced partial response (18%), nine patients had stable disease (41%), and nine patients had progressive disease (41%). With a median follow-up of 11 months, median survival for these 22 patients was 15.9 months (95% CI 8.1, 23.6 months). Median time to disease progression was 3.2 months with a 95% CI of (1.4, 4.1) months. Thus, the combination of docetaxel 60 mg/m(2) every 3 weeks and vinorelbine 15 mg/m(2) weekly appears to be active as a second line regimen in NSCLC, although it is a highly myelosuppressive regimen requiring dose modification in 91% of patients.

Rapid high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of docetaxel (Taxotere) in plasma using liquid-liquid extraction

A new rapid and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic method for analysis of docetaxel (Taxotere) in human plasma was developed and validated. After adding an internal standard (paclitaxel, Taxol), plasma was extracted following a simple liquid-liquid extraction with diethyl ether. Extraction efficiency averaged 95% for docetaxel. Separation was performed using a Nucleosil (C18) 5 microm column, monitored at 227 nm. The isocratic mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile-acetate buffer, pH 5-tetrahydrofuran (45:50:5, v/v) pumped at a flow-rate of 1.8 ml/min. The limit of quantification for docetaxel in plasma was 12.5 ng/ml. Retention times for docetaxel and paclitaxel were 7.7 and 9 min, respectively. Standard curves were linear over a range of 25-1,000 ng/ml. This new method is rapid since it does not require time-consuming extraction procedures, or complex chromatographic conditions. This rapidity, along with the lack of chromatographic interferences with various other drugs likely to be administered to the cancer patients (pain killers, corticoids, antiemetics drugs) make this method suitable for daily routine analysis of Taxotere, a major anticancer drug extensively used in clinical oncology.

Taxanes in lung cancer: a review with focus on the European experience

The introduction of new agents in the treatment of lung cancer raised in the past few years new interest in clinical research on this topic. The use of taxanes as paclitaxel and docetaxel may represent a significant progress in the treatment of lung cancer. Taxanes used as single agents show a substantial activity in lung cancer and, because of their unique mechanism of action, it is possible to combine these drugs with other non-cross-resistant agents. Taxanes share a radiosensitizing effect and their use with concurrent radiotherapy appears to become a new standard. This review will focus on the European clinical experience in the treatment of lung cancer with the two compounds.

New horizons in treating metastatic disease

The management of metastatic breast cancer is changing as a consequence of extraordinary discoveries in cancer research and the development of more advanced diagnostic technologies. Although traditional chemotherapeutics such as anthracyclines and taxanes still represent the mainstay of treatment for this disease, new drugs are demonstrating significant clinical activity and sometimes a better toxicity profile. Furthermore, the successful introduction into clinical practice of biological agents, in particular the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab, offers a key to the future of managing metastatic breast cancer. A therapeutic approach based on modifications of a specific molecular target (e.g., gene therapy, vaccines, and antiangiogenesis) alone or combined with the traditional chemotherapeutic drugs is expected to be used more commonly and will, we hope, bring significant improvement in the clinical response and quality of care of our patients.

Risks and benefits of taxanes in breast and ovarian cancer

The taxanes are a unique class of agents with a broad spectrum of clinical activity. They act by binding to tubulin, producing unnaturally stable microtubules and subsequent cell death. The distribution and elimination of paclitaxel depend on dose and administration rate. This nonlinearity is much less evident at lower infusion rates (24-hour infusions) and more evident at high plasma concentrations (3-hour infusions). The pharmacokinetics of docetaxel also suggest the presence of nonlinear pathways, but these appear to be clinically insignificant at the current doses utilised (60 to 100 mg/m2). Both agents undergo hepatic metabolism and biliary excretion and require dose adjustment in the setting of liver dysfunction. Drug interactions are quite common with these agents, some of which are sequence-dependent and clinically significant. The optimal dose of paclitaxel is not known at this time, and controversy over possible dose- or schedule-related differences in efficacy still remain. Docetaxel is somewhat more consistent in its dose and scheduling information, but controversy remains regarding a dose-benefit relationship as well as scheduling differences (weekly vs every 3 weeks). Toxicity profiles for these agents are somewhat different. Paclitaxel is more likely to be associated with peripheral neuropathy and myalgias/arthralgias than docetaxel. Docetaxel is more likely to be associated with a cumulative fluid retention syndrome that can be dose limiting. Paclitaxel and docetaxel are both highly active agents against breast cancer, including tumours that are resistant to anthracyclines. Docetaxel tends to have higher response rates overall, but direct comparisons at maximally tolerated doses have not been completed. Combination regimens with many different agents are attempting to improve on the responses seen with single-agent taxanes. The combination of paclitaxel and a platinum compound should be utilised as first-line therapy of advanced ovarian cancer. Controversy lies in the choice of the platinum compound and the dose and administration schedule of paclitaxel. Substitution of docetaxel for paclitaxel in these platinum-containing regimens is also being investigated. The taxanes also exhibit activity against ovarian cancer in patients previously exposed to platinum agents. These agents may also be administered intraperitoneally for local therapy of metastatic ovarian cancer. Although docetaxel and paclitaxel are often considered similar in activity and tolerability, this review emphasises the fact that these agents are indeed different. Clinicians need to be familiar with the benefits and adverse events related to each agent in order to make informed, appropriate clinical decisions.

Simple and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography method for the determination of docetaxel in human plasma or urine

Several methods for quantification of docetaxel have been described mainly using HPLC. We have developed a new isocratic HPLC method that is as sensitive and simpler than previous methods, and applicable to use in clinical pharmacokinetic analysis. Plasma samples are spiked with paclitaxel as internal standard and extracted manually on activated cyanopropyl end-capped solid-phase extraction columns followed by isocratic reversed-phase HPLC and UV detection at 227 nm. Using this system, the retention times for docetaxel and paclitaxel are 8.5 min and 10.5 min, respectively, with good resolution and without any interference from endogenous plasma constituents or docetaxel metabolites at these retention times. The total run time needed is only 13 min. The lower limit of quantification is 5 ng/ml using 1 ml of plasma. The validated quantitation range of the method is 5-1000 ng/ml with RSDs < or = 10%, but plasma concentrations up to 5000 ng/ml can be accurately measured using smaller aliquots. This method is also suitable for the determination of docetaxel in urine samples under the same conditions. The method has been used to assess the pharmacokinetics of docetaxel during a phase I/II study of docetaxel in combination with epirubicin and cyclophosphamide in patients with advanced cancer.