Apaziquone for non-muscle invasive bladder cancer: a critical review

Abstract

Objective: To describe clinical needs in non-muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) and review the potential of apaziquone in this respect. Methods: Epidemiology and clinical practice in NMIBC, as well as new drugs and strategies are reviewed. Results: Bladder cancer is a heterogeneous and frequent disease. Clinical risk factors help in determining additional therapy after initial resection. However, current treatments have clear limitations with regard to efficacy and/or toxicity. New drugs and strategies have been tested recently and are in (pre)clinical use. Intravesical apaziquone (EOquin^™) is a new drug. It has theoretical advantages for intravesical use, has proven safety and is presently under further clinical evaluation. Conclusion: Apaziquone is a promising drug for intravesical use in patients with NMIBC.

Keywords::

• apaziquone
• bladder cancer
• non-muscle invasive
• pharmacokinetics
• therapy