Abstract
Pemetrexed disodium (ALIMTA) is a novel antimetabolite that inhibits at least three folate-dependent enzymes, thymidylate synthase, dihydrofolate reductase, and glycinamide ribonucleotide formyltransferase. Pemetrexed disodium is broadly active in a wide variety of solid tumours, including non-small cell lung, breast, bladder, head and neck and ovarian cancers. Gemcitabine is a broadly active pyrimidine nucleoside antimetabolite, which is approved for the treatment of pancreatic and non-small cell lung cancers. Three preclinical studies have been reported that show cytotoxic synergy between gemcitabine and pemetrexed. Clinical activity with this combination has been observed in a phase I study, with partial responses in three of five patients previously treated for non-small cell lung cancer. An international phase II study of this combination in non-small cell lung cancer is ongoing.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 103-105 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Journal | Lung Cancer |
Volume | 34 |
Issue number | SUPPL. 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 2001 |
Keywords
- Antifolate
- Gemcitabine
- Pemetrexed disodium
- Thymidylate synthase
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Oncology
- Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
- Cancer Research