Vinflunine: review of a new vinca alkaloid and its potential role in oncology

Abstract

Objective: To review the pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, in vitro and in vivo efficacy, and safety profile of vinflunine in the treatment of various solid tumors. Data sources: A literature search was conducted using keywords included vinflunine, vinca alkaloid, Javlor, and solid tumor in PubMed/MEDLINE (1950—January 2009) and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1950—January 2009). Study selection and data extraction: Published studies, posters, and meeting abstracts evaluating the in vitro and in vivo efficacy of vinflunine were reviewed. Data synthesis: Vinflunine is the newest member of the vinca alkaloid family. It has the weakest affinity to tubulins, but is shown to have unique receptor-independent antiangiogenesis, and antimetastasis properties. After administration, it is distributed extensively into tissues, metabolized via the CYP3A4 system, and eventually excreted in urine and feces. Phase II/III trials reported activities of vinflunine in advanced stage nonsmall-cell lung cancer, metastatic breast cancer, metastatic renal cell carcinoma, transitional cell carcinomas of the urothelium, small-cell lung cancer, and malignant pleural mesothelioma as monotherapy and in combination with other chemotherapy agents. More ongoing trials are evaluating its use in other solid tumors and in combination regimens. The most common adverse events in these trials were hematological (anemia and neutropenia), constipation, fatigue, abdominal pain, and myalgia. Conclusions: Vinflunine is a new vinca alkaloid for the treatment of advanced staged solid tumors. Available data showed promising activities in various malignancies. Further studies are needed to further define vinflunine’s role in oncology.