ZD1839 (Iressa™) in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

Abstract

Abstract Learning Objectives After completing this course, the reader will be able to:Identify the current status of Phase I, II, and III trials of ZD1839 in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Describe the clinical development plan for ZD1839 in second line, adjuvant (maintenance), and prevention in patients with NSCLC.Identify treatment options for patients with NSCLC. Access and take the CME test online and receive one hour of AMA PRA category 1 credit at CME.TheOncologist.com Despite the advent of cisplatin-based combination chemotherapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the prognosis for this patient population remains poor. Novel biologically targeted agents currently in development have the potential for greater efficacy against NSCLC, and possibly less toxicity than is associated with conventional cytotoxic chemotherapy. The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is recognized as a potentially useful target, and the small molecule, orally active EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor ZD1839 (Iressa™) is currently the furthest along in clinical development of the anti-EGFR agents. This review summarizes the currently available clinical data on the use of ZD1839 in the treatment of NSCLC.