Phase I study of CPT-11 and bolus 5-FU/<Emphasis Type="Italic">l</Emphasis>-leucovorin in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer

Background Irinotecan (CPT-11) and bolus 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)/leucovorin (LV) administered weekly for 4 weeks every 42 days (Saltz regimen) is active but substantially toxic in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). The efficacy and toxicity of this regimen, however, have not been determined in Japanese patients with metastatic CRC.Methods We investigated the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), and recommended phase II dose (RD) for CPT-11 given i.v. (90-min infusion) and bolus 5-FU plus biologically active l-LV administered weekly for 3 weeks every 28 days (modified Saltz regimen) in Japanese patients with metastatic CRC. Eighteen patients with measurable disease, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 2 or less, and adequate organ functions were enrolled.Results At dose level 2 (CPT-11, 100mg/m²; 5-FU, 400mg/m²; and l-LV, 25mg/body), 1 of 6 patients had DLT (febrile neutropenia). At dose level 3 (CPT-11, 100mg/m²; 5-FU, 500mg/m²; and l-LV, 25mg/body), 2 of 6 patients had DLT (febrile neutropenia and grade 4 neutropenia lasting more than 4 days). To determine whether level 3 was the MTD level, an additional 3 patients were treated at this level, but no DLT was observed. Consequently, 2 of 9 patients had DLT at level 3, this level thus being considered as the RD. At this level, grade 3–4 neutropenia was common but manageable. Nonhematological toxicities were mild. Seven partial responses were observed in the 18 enrolled patients (response rate [RR], 39%), and 8 patients (44%) experienced stable disease.Conclusion This CPT-11/5-FU/l-LV regimen administered weekly for 3 weeks every 28 days has substantial antitumor activity, with manageable toxicities. A multicenter phase II study is currently underway.     

Phase I-II study of irinotecan combined with mitomycin-C in patients with advanced gastric cancer.

Background:Irinotecan (CPT-11) shows synergism withmitomycin-C (MMC) in a preclinical setting. The goals of this study wereto determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), the dose limitingtoxicity, the recommended dose (RD), and preliminary anti-tumor activityin a combined CPT-11 and MMC treatment of advanced gastric cancer. Patients and methods:The study was designed to evaluateescalated doses of CPT-11 and MMC administered every two weeks. Fiveescalating dose levels were studied (CPT-11/MMC: 100/5; 125/5; 150/5;150/7; 150/10 mg/m²). Results:Thirty-onepatients were enrolled. Thirty patients were assessable for toxicity andtumor response for 89 treatment cycles. The median age was 60 years(32–73 years), and most patients (90%) had a performancestatus of 0 to 1. Fourteen patients were previously treated and 17 werechemotherapy-naive. The MTD was CPT-11 150 mg/m² plus MMC 10mg/m², in which all three patients experienced grade 4neutropenia, including one episode of prolonged and one of febrileneutropenia, and one patient experienced grade 3 diarrhea during thefirst cycle. Fifteen partial responses were observed. Conclusions:The RD based on this phase I–II study wasCPT-11 150 mg/m² plus MMC 5 mg/m² administeredevery two weeks. This combination demonstrates promising activityagainst advanced gastric cancer and warrants further investigation inanother phase II study.     

S-phase modulation by irinotecan: pilot studies in advanced solid tumors

Two studies of irinotecan (CPT-11) followed 24 h later by an antimetabolite were conducted. The objectives of the studies were: (1) to determine whether the increase in S-phase in tumor cells seen 24 h after CPT-11 administration in animal studies is seen in advanced solid tumors in patients, (2) to determine the dose of CPT-11 required to produce this effect, (3) to compare two methods (immunohistochemistry, IHC, for cyclin A, and DNA flow cytometry, FC) for evaluating S-phase in tumor biopsies from patients, and (4) to establish the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) of CPT-11, given 24 h before gemcitabine (GEM, 1000 mg/m²). In one study CPT-11 was followed 24 h later by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), 400 mg/m² per week for 4 weeks every 6 weeks. Tumor biopsies were obtained before and 24 h after CPT-11 administration before administration of 5-FU and assayed for S-phase by IHC for cyclin A and by FC. The starting dose of CPT-11 was 80 mg/m² per week with subsequent exploration of 40 and 60 mg/m² per week to establish the dose-effect relationship of the increase in tumor cells in S-phase. In the second study, CPT-11 was given 24 h before GEM 1000 mg/m² per week for 2 weeks every 3 weeks. Doses of 20–80 mg/m² were explored to establish the MTD and DLT and to study tumor cell S-phase in selected patients. CPT-11 80 mg/m² produced a mean increase in S-phase by IHC for cyclin A of 137%. Lesser increases were seen with 40 and 60 mg/m². CPT-11 followed 24 h later by 5-FU 400 mg/m² per week for 4 weeks was well tolerated. In the study of CPT-11 followed by GEM 1000 mg/m², 60 mg/m² of CPT-11 was the MTD.This work was presented in part at the 14th EORTC-NCI-AACR Symposium on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics, Frankfurt, Germany, November 2002.     

A phase I, dose-finding study of irinotecan (CPT-11) short i.v. infusion combined with fixed dose of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) protracted i.v. infusion in adult patients with advanced solid tumours

Purpose Irinotecan (CPT-11) and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) are effective cytotoxic agents in the treatment of solid tumours. Continuous i.v. infusion (CI) of 5-FU is significantly more active and better tolerated than bolus i.v. 5-FU. This phase I pharmacokinetic and clinical study evaluated escalating CPT-11 doses administered every 3 weeks combined with a fixed dose of 5-FU CI over 14 days to find the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of this combined chemotherapy.Patients and methods Patients with solid tumours showing failure with previous standard treatment or for whom no established curative therapy existed received CPT-11 i.v. over 90 min (six dose levels were evaluated: 150, 175, 200, 250, 300 and 350 mg/m²) plus a fixed dose of 5-FU CI 250 mg/m² per day over 14 days. If the MTD was not reached at CPT-11 level 6, then 5-FU was increased to 300 mg/m². In step 2, 5-FU was administered as a true protracted infusion at the recommended dose found during step 1. In step 3, the recommended dose of CPT-11 was divided and administered in a weekly schedule for 4 weeks combined with a fixed dose of 5-FU CI 250 mg/m², and then followed by 2–5 weeks rest.Results Neutropenia and diarrhoea were the main toxicities, leading to early termination of infusion in three of six patients in level 7. Therefore, CPT-11 350 mg/m² + 5-FU 250 mg/m² CI over 14 days was identified as the recommended dose. In step 2, CPT-11 dose had to be reduced to 300 mg/m² due to toxicity. The weekly schedule of CPT-11 75 mg/m² + 5-FU 250 mg/m² CI was feasible with only one patient experiencing severe diarrhoea. No interactions were found in the kinetics parameters of CPT-11 or 5-FU for the different dose levels studied.Conclusion CPT-11 300 mg/m² + 5-FU 250 mg/m² protracted infusion is the recommended dose for phase II trials, neutropenia and diarrhoea being the dose-limiting toxicities.     

CPT-11联合CF/5-FU方案治疗胃肠道癌的Ⅰ期临床研究

目的探索CPT-11(开普拓)联合CF/5-FU治疗胃肠道癌的最大耐受剂量(MTD)和剂量限制性毒性(DLT).方法 CPT-11初始剂量为120mg/m2,然后150mg/m2,180mg/m2和200mg/m2 iv d1,递增剂量直至出现DLT.CF 200mg/m2iv 2h,然后5-FU 400mg/m2快速静滴,接着5-FU 600mg/m2持续静滴22h,第1天、第2天给药,2周重复.结果 20例胃肠道癌患者共完成化疗111周期,中位数6周期.MTD为200mg/m2,DLT为腹泻和WBC减少.结论我们推荐CPT-11180mg/m2联合CF/5-FR每2周重复的方法,作为国内PS为0～1胃肠癌患者的一线二线化疗方案.     

Phase I study of CPT-11 and continuous 5-FU / l-leucovorin combination therapy(modified AIO regimen)in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer

A combination of CPT-11, continuous 5-fluorouracil(5-FU)and leucovorin(LV), the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Internistische Onkologie(AIO)regimen, is widely used for the treatment of metastatic CRC. The efficacy and toxicity of this regimen, however, have not been determined in Japanese patients with metastatic CRC. Our objective was to evaluate the safety of the AIO regimen plus CPT-11 in Japanese colorectal carcinoma(CRC)patients. We investigated the maximum tolerated dose(MTD), dose-limiting toxicity(DLT), and recommended dose(RD)for CPT-11 and continuous 5-FU. CPT-11, 5-FU, and l-LV were administered on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 28-day cycle. The dose of CPT- 11 was escalated from 40 mg/m2 (level 1)to 80 mg/m2 (level 3). The 5-FU dose was then escalated from 1,000 mg/m2 (level 4)to 2,000 mg/m2 (level 5). If neither level met the criteria for the MTD, the recommended dose was defined as level 5, and the dose escalation was discontinued, because the maximum approved weekly dose of CPT-11 alone in Japan is 80 mg/m2 and the dose of 5-FU in the original AIO regimen was 2,000 mg/m2. A total of 18 patients were enrolled in this study. Hematological and non-hematological toxicity were infrequent and mild. There were no toxicities greater than grade 2 at each dose level. Level 5 did not meet the MTD criteria. Our results confirm that the modified AIO plus CPT-11 regimen is safe for Japanese patients. The recommended doses in the present study were CPT-11 80 mg/m2, 5-FU 2,000 mg/m2, and l-LV 250 mg/m2.     

Bimonthly Chemotherapy with Oxaliplatin,Irinotecan, Infusional 5-Fluorouracil/Folinic Acid in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Pretreated with Irinotecan- or Oxaliplatin-Based Chemotherapy

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the tolerability and efficacy of a ternary bi-monthly irinotecan (CPT-11) - oxaliplatin (OHP) - infusional 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)/folinic acid (FA) combination in advanced colorectal cancer patients who had received prior CPT-11 and/or OHP-based chemotherapy regimen. Colorectal cancer patients were given bimonthly CPT-11 as a 90-min infusion, followed by OHP (85 mg/m²), FA (200 mg/m²) 2-h infusions and 5-FU (48-h infusion). CPT-11 and 5-FU doses were escalated as reported below. 26 patients were recruited. Fourteen patients had received a prior CPT-11-, 6 patients a prior OHP-based chemotherapy regimen and 6 patients both regimens. Three dose levels were investigated: CPT-11 100, 120 and 140 mg/m² and 5-FU 1500, 1800 and 2100 mg/m² in 6, 12 and 8 patients, respectively. All patients were evaluable for toxicity, 24 for antitumor activity. At all dose levels toxicity was ac-ceptable. Grade 4 toxicity occurred in two patients only (neutropenia in one case and stomatitis in another one, 3.8%). Grade 3 toxicities included nausea and vomiting (34.6%), asthenia (26.9%), neurosensory toxicity (15.4%), neutropenia (3.8%) and di-arrhea (3.8%). Hematological toxicity was infrequent and generally mild. At the third dose level, a higher, although not significantly different incidence of hematological and neurosensory toxicity (both occurring in 62.5% of cases, all grades) was observed compared to the other two, while nausea and vomiting were significantly less frequent (37.5% vs 100%). Overall, we observed 2 complete responses, 9 partial responses (OR 45.8%), 8 stable disease (33.3%), and 5 disease progression (20.8%). Median overall survival was 18 months and median time-to-progression 5.5 months. This combination showed moderate toxicity and promising antitumor activity in CPT-11 and/or OHP pretreated colorectal cancer patients. The second dose level using CPT-11 at 120 mg/m² and 5-FU at 1800 mg/m² is recommended for further phase II studies in this patient population.     

Phase I trial of weekly irinotecan combined with UFT as second-line treatment for advanced colorectal cancer

The aim of this study was to determine the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) and dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) of weekly Irinotecan (CPT-11) plus UFT, and to assess the antitumour activity of this combination as second-line chemotherapy in patients with advanced colorectal carcinoma, 31 patients with measurable advanced colorectal carcinoma were treated. Cohorts of 3 patients received increasing dose levels of the combination. Levels 1 to 4 included a fixed dose of oral (p.o.) UFT (250 mg/m²/day) for 21 days of a 28-day cycle combined with increasing intravenous (i.v.) doses of CPT-11 (80, 100, 110 and 120 mg/m²) on days 1, 8 and 15. Levels 5 and 6 included a higher fixed dose of oral UFT (300 mg/m²) combined with increasing i.v. doses of CPT-11 (100 and 110 mg/m²) on days 1, 8 and 15. 147 courses were administered. MTD were reached at level 4 (2 cases of grade 4 diarrhoea and 1 grade 3 asthenia), and level 6 (1 grade 4 diarrhoea, 1 grade 3 diarrhoea and 1 grade 3 febrile neutropenia). Responses in 30 evaluable patients were: 3 partial responses (10%), 15 stable disease (50%) and progressive disease in 12 patients (40%). Median time to progression was 4.5 months (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 3.4–6.6 months) and median survival was 11 months (95% CI: 7.9–14.1 months). The recommended doses for phase II trials are: (a) CPT-11 110 mg/m² i.v. on days 1, 8 and 15 every 28 days plus UFT 250 mg/m² p.o. on days 1 through to 21 or (b) CPT-11 100 mg/m² and UFT 300 mg/m².     

Phase I study of a weekly schedule of oxaliplatin, high-dose leucovorin, and infusional fluorouracil in pretreated patients with advanced colorectal cancer

Purpose:To identify the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and dose limiting toxicities (DLT) of oxaliplatin (L-OHP) given on a weekly schedule including fixed doses of leucovorin (LV) and infusional 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), to define the toxicity profile of this regimen and to find preliminary evidence of its activity in pretreated patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (MCRC). Patients and methods: Twenty-one patients with progressive disease, treated with fluoropyrimidines and with histologically measurable MCRC entered into this phase I study. Fixed doses of LV (500 mg/m²) followed by a 48-hour 5-FU 2600 mg/m² infusion (5-FU_48h) were administered with escalating doses of L-OHP, starting from 60 mg/m² and with stepwise increments of 5 mg/m². No intra-patient dose escalation was allowed. Treatment was given once a week for four consecutive weeks, followed by a one-week rest period. Results:Three dose levels were tested. The MTD was L-OHP 70 mg/m² since two of the three patients showed dose-limiting diarrhea and the third developed neutropenia during the first cycle of chemotherapy. Most patients complained of mild peripheral sensitive neurotoxicity, which was related to the cumulative dose of L-OHP. Treatment delays were necessary for a total of 42 cases, but only in 11 of 42 after the pre-arranged 10% dose reduction of 5-FU (2300 mg/m²). Sixteen patients were evaluable for response: seven (33%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 14.6%–57.0%) were considered to show a major response (one complete), six showed a stable disease, and in addition progressive disease was observed in three patients. Conclusions:Our results show that L-OHP, LV and 5-FU can be administered safely and repetitively using a weekly schedule. Diarrhea and neutropenia are the DLT of this regimen. Its activity and its manageable toxicity profile deserve further evaluation in chemotherapy-naïve MCRC patients. The doses recommended for phase II trials are: L-OHP 65 mg/m², LV 500 mg/m² and 5-FU_48h 2300 mg/m² infusion given on a weekly-times-four schedule followed by a one-week rest period.     

Salvage Chemotherapy with CPT-11 for Recurrent Oligodendrogliomas

Objective: A prospective Phase I study designed to establish the maximum tolerated dose and secondarily evaluate response rate to CPT-11 in patients with recurrent oligodendrogliomas (oligos) on anticonvulsant drugs (AEDs). Background: Oligos, which constitute 1–2% for all adult brain tumors, are commonly treated with procarbazine, CCNU and vincristine (PCV) chemotherapy. How to treat oligos that have failed PCV, surgery and radiotherapy is more problematic. Design/Methods: Fifteen patients (age range 24–55 years; gender 10 males; 5 females) with recurrent oligos and on AEDs were treated prospectively with CPT-11. Four cohorts of patients defined by CPT-11 dose were treated. Three patients were treated with 400 mg/m² every 3 weeks, 3 patients 500 mg/m², 6 patients 600 mg/m² and 3 patients 700 mg/m². Neuroradiographic evaluation was performed after every other dose of CPT-11. In patients with stable or responding disease, two further doses of CPT-11 were administered. Alternative or supportive care was offered to patients with disease progression. Results: Toxicity included neutropenia (3 patients; 1 each with Grade III and Grade IV toxicity); thrombocytopenia (2 patients; 1 with Grade IV toxicity); abdominal pain with or without diarrhea (5 patients; 1 with Grade III toxicity) nausea/vomiting (4 patients). No patient required hospitalization nor did a treatment-related death occur. One patient required a platelet transfusion. Toxicity was a function of CPT-11 dose and the maximum tolerated dose was 600 mg/m². Cycles (2–12) of CPT-11 were administered (median 4). Response was as follows: partial response (2 patients); stable disease (5 patients); and progressive disease (8 patients). Duration of response ranged from 1.5 to 9 months with a median of 3. In patients with either stable disease or a partial response, response duration was 4.5–9 months (median 6 months). Progression-free survival at 6 months was 33% and 0% at 12 months. Overall survival following initiation of CPT-11 ranged from 2 to 12 months (median 3 months). In patients with either stable or responding disease, median survival was 7 months (range 6–12 months). Conclusion: In this small cohort of patients with recurrent low-grade oligos having been treated previously with PCV and on cytochrome P450 enzyme inducing AEDs, CPT-11 has modest palliative efficacy and acceptable toxicity. A dose of 600 mg/m² every 3 weeks of CPT-11 in patients on AEDs is suggested based on toxicity analysis.     

A phase I study of irinotecan and pegylated liposomal doxorubicin in recurrent ovarian cancer (Tohoku Gynecologic Cancer Unit 104 study)

Purpose

A phase I clinical study was conducted to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and the recommended dose (RD) of irinotecan hydrochloride (CPT-11) in CPT-11/pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD) combination therapy, a novel treatment regimen for platinum- and taxane-resistant recurrent ovarian cancer.

Methods

Pegylated liposomal doxorubicin was administered intravenously on day 3 at a fixed dose of 30 mg/m². CPT-11 was administered intravenously on days 1 and 15, at a dose of 50 mg/m² on both days. One course of chemotherapy was 28 days, and patients were given a maximum of six courses, with the CPT-11 dose being increased in increments of 10 mg/m² (level 1, 50 mg/m²; level 2, 60 mg/m²; level 3, 70 mg/m²; level 4, 80 mg/m²) to determine MTD and RD.

Results

During the period from April 2010 to March 2013, three patients were enrolled for each level. In the first course, no dose-limiting toxicity occurred in any of the patients. Grade 4 neutropenia was observed in two of three patients at level 4. At level 4, the antitumor effect was a partial response (PR) in two of the three patients and stable disease (SD) in one. At level 3, one of the three patients showed PR and two had SD. At level 4, the start of the next course was postponed in two of three patients. In addition, one patient at level 4 experienced hemotoxicity that met the criteria for dose reduction in the next course. The above results suggested that administration of CPT-11 at dose level 5 (90 mg/m²) would result in more patients with severe neutropenia and in more patients requiring postponement of the next course or a dose reduction. Based on the above, the RD of CPT-11 was determined to be 80 mg/m².

Conclusions

The results suggest that CPT-11/PLD combination therapy for recurrent ovarian cancer is a useful treatment method with a high response rate and manageable adverse reactions. In the future phase II study, the safety and efficacy of this therapy will be assessed at 80 mg/m² of CPT-11 and 30 mg/m² of PLD.     

A phase 1 and pharmacokinetic study of gemcitabine and oxaliplatin in patients with solid tumors

Purpose: This dose escalation study aimed to determine the recommended doses, toxicity and pharmacokinetics of oxaliplatin and gemcitabine given on days 1 and 8 every 21 days. This schedule may maximize dose intensity of both drugs with acceptable or reduced toxicity. Patient and methods: Eligible patients had solid malignancies, no more than two prior courses of chemotherapy, ECOG performance status 0–2, neurotoxicity ≤ NCI-CTC grade 1 and adequate organ function. Dose escalation commenced at oxaliplatin 40 mg/m² and gemcitabine 750 mg/m², both given on days 1 and 8 every 21 days, and reached oxaliplatin 80 mg/m² and gemcitabine 1,500 mg/m². The two highest dose levels were each expanded to six patients to gain additional toxicity data. Results: There were no dose limiting toxicities related to treatment and an MTD was not reached. Five patients (24%) had grade 3 neutropenia, without associated infection, and seven patients (33%) had grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia. Neurotoxicity was mild and no worse than grade 1. Two patients with mesothelioma (10%) had partial responses and 11 patients (52%) had disease stabilization. No pharmacokinetic interaction between oxaliplatin and gemcitabine was detected. Dose intensity was maximal at level 4 (oxaliplatin 70 mg/m² and gemcitabine 1,250 mg/m²). Conclusions: This schedule allows oxaliplatin and gemcitabine to be delivered at the full dose intensity of each drug with excellent tolerability and predictable pharmacokinetics. The recommended doses for phase II studies are oxaliplatin 70 mg/m² and gemcitabine 1,250 mg/m² on days 1 and 8 every 21 days.     

Biweekly irinotecan or raltitrexed plus 6S-leucovorin and bolus 5-fluorouracil in advanced colorectal carcinoma: a Southern Italy Cooperative Oncology Group phase II-III randomized trial.

Purpose:The aim of this randomised trial was to evaluate theactivity and toxicity of a biweekly regimen including 6S-leucovorin-modulated5-fluorouracil (LFA–5-FU), combined with either irinotecan (CPT-11 +LFA–5-FU) or raltitrexed (Tomudex®) (TOM + LFA–5-FU), inadvanced colorectal cancer patients, and to make a preliminary comparison ofboth these experimental regimens with a biweekly administration ofLFA–5-FU modulated by methotrexate (MTX + LFA–5-FU). Patients and methods:One hundred fifty-nine patients withadvanced colorectal carcinoma previously untreated for the metastatic disease(34 of them previously exposed to adjuvant 5-FU) were randomly allocated toreceive: CPT-11, 200 mg/m² i.v. on day 1, followed on day 2 by LFA,250 mg/m² i.v. infusion and 5-FU, 850 mg/m² s i.v. bolus(arm A); TOM, 3 mg/m² i.v. on day 1, followed on day 2 by LFA, 250mg/m² i.v. infusion and 5-FU, 1050 mg/m² i.v. bolus (armB); or MTX, 750 mg/m² i.v. on day 1, followed on day 2 by LFA, 250mg/m² i.v. infusion and 5-FU, 800 mg/m² i.v. bolus (armC). Courses were repeated every two weeks in all arms of the trial. Responserate (RR) was evaluated after every four courses. The sample size was definedto have an 80% power to detect a 35% RR for each experimentaltreatment, and to show a difference of at least 4% in RR with thestandard treatment if the true difference is 15% or more. Results:The RRs were: 34% (95% confidence interval(95% CI): 21%–48%) in arm A, including 3 completeresponses (CRs) and 15 partial responses (PRs), 24% (95% CI:14%–38%) in arm B, including 2 CRs and 11 PRs, and24% (95% CI: 14%–38%), with 2 CRs and 11PRs, in arm C. After a median follow-up time of 62 (range 18–108) weeks,the median time to progression was 38, 25, and 27 weeks for arm A, B, and C,respectively. With 94 patients still alive, the one-year probability ofsurvival was 61%, 54%, and 59%, respectively. WHO grade3 or 4 neutropenia and diarrhoea affected 46% and 16%,respectively, of patients treated with CPT-11 + LFA–5-FU. Medianrelative dose intensity over eight cycles (DI₈) was 78% forCPT-11 and 82% for 5-FU. Severe toxicities of TOM + LFA–5-FU wereneutropenia (16%) and diarrhoea (16%), but median relativeDI₈ was 93% for TOM, and 82% for 5-FU. Conclusions:CPT-11 + LFA–5-FU compares favorably in termof activity and toxicity with other combination regimens including CPT-11 andcontinuous infusional 5-FU. The hypothesis of a RR 15% higher than theMTX + LFA–5-FU treatment can not be ruled out after this interimanalysis. The TOM + LFA–5-FU regimen showed a RR and a toxicity profilevery close to the MTX + LFA–5-FU combination, and dose not deservefurther evaluation in advanced colorectal cancer patients.     

Capecitabine and oxaliplatin in advanced colorectal cancer:A?dose-finding?study

Purpose:Capecitabine and oxaliplatin are both activeanticancer agents in the treatment of patients with advanced colorectalcancer (ACRC). The aim of this dose-finding trial was to determinethe maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), the dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs)and the activity of the combination in patients with advanced colorectalcancer. Patients and methods:Twenty-fivechemotherapy-pretreated patients received the combination ofcapecitabine and oxaliplatin. Capecitabine was administered orally twicea day continuously for 14 days in doses ranging from 1650 to 2500mg/m²/d, and oxaliplatin was administered as a two-hourinfusion on day 1 using dose, ranges from 100 to 130 mg/m²repeated every three weeks. Results:Twenty-fivepatients were assessable for toxicity, and DLTs were diarrhea (grade3: 27%) and stomatitis (grade 3: 9%) at dose levelVI. Dose level V (capecitabine 2500 mg/m² and oxaliplatin 120mg/m²) was found to be the MTD. Hematological toxicitywas minimal, overall neurotoxicity (grade 1–4) was 27% with1% grade 3–4. A global response rate was 17%(95% confidence interval (95% CI):2%–32%) and the median overall survival was 12months. Conclusion:The recommended dose for furtherphase II studies is capecitabine 2500 mg/m²/d withintermittent schedule and oxaliplatin 120 mg/m² every threeweeks. The toxicities were mainly gastrointestinal: diarrhea, stomatitisand vomiting. This combination should be studied in phase II trials inadvanced colorectal.     

Phase I trial of gemcitabine and CPT-11 given weekly for four weeks every?six?weeks

Background:Our previous studies have shown that the in vitrocytotoxicity of gemcitabine and SN-38, the active metabolite of irinotecan (CPT-11), is synergistic in human tumor cell lines. Patients and methods:Twenty-four patients with solid tumors, refractory to standard chemotherapy or for whom no effective therapy existed (age range 31–74; 7 female, 17 male; ECOG PS 0 = 12, 1 = 11, 2 = 1), received gemcitabine and CPT-11 weekly for four weeks out of every six weeks. Fifty courses of treatment (median 2, range 1–8) were given through five dose levels of gemcitabine/CPT-11 (600/75, 800/75, 800/100, 1000/100, 1000/125 mg/m²). Results:Grade 3 and 4 neutropenia occurred in eight and two patients, respectively. Grade 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia occurred in one and three patients, respectively. Hematologic toxicity resulted in 2 missed doses of treatment in two out of six patients and was therefore dose limiting at gemcitabine 1000 mg/m² and CPT-11 125 mg/m². Grade 3 and 4 diarrhea occurred in two and one patients, respectively. Other moderate non-hematologic toxicities included alopecia, anorexia, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Conclusions:The maximum tolerated dose for this study recommended for phase II testing is gemcitabine 1000 mg/m² and CPT-11 100 mg/m². A partial response was seen in transitional cell carcinoma.     

Phase I study of 3-weekly docetaxel, capecitabine and oxaliplatin combination chemotherapy in patients with previously untreated advanced gastric cancer

Purpose

Adding docetaxel to cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) (DCF) significantly improved clinical efficacy in advanced gastric cancer (AGC). To further improve the efficacy and tolerability, we substituted oxaliplatin for cisplatin and capecitabine for 5-FU in the DCF regimen and performed a phase I study to determine the recommended dose (RD) and dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) of docetaxel, capecitabine and oxaliplatin (DXO) combination in patients with AGC.

Materials and methods

Previously untreated patients with histologically proven metastatic AGC and ECOG performance status 0–2 were enrolled. Docetaxel and oxaliplatin were administered i.v. on day 1. Capecitabine was administered orally bid on days 1–14. Each cycle was repeated every 3 weeks. DLTs were evaluated during the first two cycles of treatment.

Results

Twenty-one patients were enrolled: 15 patients in dose-escalation phase and 6 patients in the extension at the RD. Median age was 50 years (range 21–65 years). At dose level 3 (60 mg/m² docetaxel, 1,000 mg/m² capecitabine, 100 mg/m² oxaliplatin), 1 diarrhea (DLT) was found among 6 patients while at dose level 4 (60 mg/m² docetaxel, 800 mg/m² capecitabine, 130 mg/m² oxaliplatin), 2 DLTs (febrile neutropenia and diarrhea) were observed among 3 patients. Therefore, the dose level 3 was determined as RD. DLTs include grade 3 diarrhea and febrile neutropenia. Cumulative (all cycles) grade 3/4 toxicity included neutropenia (75%), leucopenia (50%), febrile neutropenia (25%), diarrhea (17%), and neuropathy (17%). Of 14 patients with measurable lesions, 11 achieved partial response and 3 showed stable disease.

Conclusion

The RD of the DXO regimen in patients with AGC is capecitabine 1,000 mg/m² twice daily on days 1–14, in combination with decetaxel 60 mg/m² (day 1) and oxaliplatin 100 mg/m² (day 1) repeated every 3 weeks. The DXO regimen seems to have promising activity and offers an easy alternative to DCF. The toxicities appear to be still substantial, but manageable.     

Oxaliplatin combined with irinotecan and 5-fluorouracil/leucovorin (OCFL) in metastatic colorectal cancer: a phase I-II study.

BACKGROUND: A phase I-II multicenter trial was conducted to define the maximal tolerated dose and describe the activity of an OCFL combination using oxaliplatin (OHP), irinotecan (CPT-11) and 5-fluorouracil (FU)/leucovorin (LV) in metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: CRC patients not pretreated with palliative chemotherapy, with performance status < or =1 and adequate haematological, kidney and liver function, were eligible. Treatment consisted in weekly 24-h infusion 5-FU (2300 mg/m(2))/LV (30 mg) and alternating OHP (70-85 mg/m(2), days 1 and 15) and CPT-11 (80-140 mg/m(2), days 8 and 22) repeated every 5 weeks. OHP and CPT-11 were escalated in cohorts of three to six patients. RESULTS: Thirty patients received a median of five cycles. Dose-limiting toxicity occurred at dose level 3, and the recommended dose was OHP 70 mg/m(2), CPT-11 100 mg/m(2), LV 30 mg and 5-FU 2300 mg/m(2)/24 h. Grade > or =3 toxicities were diarrhea 23%, neutropenia 20%, fatigue 7%, and neurologic 7%. Two febrile neutropenia episodes (one fatal) were recorded. Among 28 patients with measurable disease (90%), we observed two complete and 20 partial responses; overall RR was 78% (95% CI, 59% to 92%). Median time to progression and overall survival were 9.5 and 25.4 months, respectively. Seven patients underwent liver metastases resection. CONCLUSION: OCFL is an overall well tolerated regimen with very high efficacy, which makes it most suitable for tumour control before surgery of metastatic disease.     

Phase I dose-finding and pharmacokinetic trial of irinotecan (CPT-11) administered every two weeks

Objectives:This trial was performed to determine themaximum tolerated dose (MTD), dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), andpharmacokinetic profile of irinotecan (CPT-11) when administered on aonce-every-2-week schedule. Patients and methods:CPT-11was administered to successive cohorts of patients at progressivelyincreasing starting doses ranging from 125 to 350 mg/m². TheMTD and DLTs were determined both for CPT-11 alone and for CPT-11followed by filgrastim (G-CSF). Plasma samples were obtained during thefirst 24 hours after initial dosing to determine the totalconcentrations (lactone + carboxylate forms) of CPT-11; of theactive metabolite SN-38; and of SN-38 glucuronide (SN-38G). Results:Neutropenic fever was the DLT for CPT-11 atthe 300 mg/m² dose level. When G-CSF was added, doseescalation beyond 350 mg/m² could not be achieved due tograde 2–3 toxicities that prevented on-time retreatment withCPT-11. Severe, late diarrhea was uncommon on this schedule. Peak plasmaconcentrations of SN-38 and SN-38G were approximately 2.5% and4.2% of the corresponding peak plasma concentration for CPT-11,respectively. The harmonic mean terminal half-lives for CPT-11, SN-38,and SN-38G were 7.1 hours, 13.4 hours, and 12.7 hours, respectively. Nopredictive correlation was observed between CPT-11 or SN-38 peakconcentration or AUC and first-cycle diarrhea, neutropenia, nausea, orvomiting. Across the range of doses studied, mean CPT-11 clearance was14.0 ± 4.0 l/h/m² and volume of distribution was 146± 45.9 l/m². Conclusions:Whenadministered every two weeks, the recommended phase II starting dose ofCPT-11 is 250 mg/m² when given alone and 300 mg/m²when supported by G-CSF. This every-two-week regimen offers a tolerableand active alternative to weekly or every-three-week single-agent CPT-11therapy.     

Irinotecan combined with bolus fluorouracil, continuous infusion fluorouracil, and high-dose leucovorin every two weeks (LV5FU2 regimen): a clinical dose-finding and pharmacokinetic study in patients with pretreated metastatic colorectal cancer.

PURPOSE: To determine the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) and recommended dose of irinotecan (CPT-11) in combination with fluorouracil (5-FU) and leucovorin (LV), using a biweekly LV5FU2 regimen and increasing doses of CPT-11, and to assess the efficacy of this combination in pretreated patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). PATIENTS AND METHODS: All patients had metastatic CRC and a World Health Organization performance status of 0 or 1. CPT-11 was administered over a 90-minute infusion every 2 weeks at a range of dose levels (100, 120, 150, 180, 200, 220, and 260 mg/m(2)). LV5FU2 was started 1 hour after the end of the biweekly CPT-11 infusion and was also administered on day 2. RESULTS: Fifty-five patients were entered onto this trial; 549 cycles were administered. The MTD was not reached at 260 mg/m(2), and a dose level of 300 mg/m(2) was added. The MTD as defined in the protocol was not reached at this dose level either, but all patients had cycles delayed and/or required a dose reduction. This dose was deemed to be the MTD. To take into account both the toxicity of and compliance with the biweekly schedule, the recommended CPT-11 dose was established at 180 to 200 mg/m(2). Antitumor activity was observed at almost all dose levels, with an objective response rate of 22%. Median time to progression was 6.3 months and overall survival was 15 months. CONCLUSION: The biweekly CPT-11/LV5FU2 combination is feasible and safe, without overlapping toxicity. CPT-11 at 180 to 200 mg/m(2) in combination with LV5FU2 has been selected as the recommended dose for further studies.     

A multicenter phase II study of irinotecan (CPT-11) alternated with 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin as first-line treatment of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer

Purpose In this multicenter phase II study the efficacy and safety of the alternating schedule of irinotecan (CPT-11) with bolus 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and leucovorin (LV) were assessed as first-line chemotherapy in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC).Patients and methods Enrolled in the study were 43 patients with advanced CRC. They received CPT-11 350 mg/m² i.v. on day 1, alternating with LV 20 mg/m² i.v. and 5-FU 425 mg/m² i.v. daily for five consecutive days, on days 22–26 (Mayo Clinic regimen). One cycle consisted of 6 weeks.Results A total of 179 cycles were administered with a median of four per patient (range one to nine). Efficacy was analyzed on an intention-to-treat basis. The overall objective response rate was 30% (95% CI 16–44), with four complete responses and nine partial responses, whereas 20 patients (4%) showed stable disease. The median time to disease progression was 9.0 months and median survival was 18.5 months. Grade 3/4 diarrhea was mainly related to CPT-11 rather than to 5-FU (9.3% vs 4.7% of patients), whereas grade 3/4 neutropenia was higher during 5-FU administration (16.3% vs 7.0% of patients).Conclusions The alternating schedule of CPT-11 with 5 days bolus of 5-FU and low-dose LV showed a clinical benefit in terms of tumor growth control as first-line treatment of patients with metastatic CRC. The overall safety data confirmed this alternating combination as a well-tolerated treatment.