Taxanes in the Treatment of Advanced (Stage III and IV) Non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC): Recent Developments

Abstract

Taxanes, paclitaxel, and docetaxel have become the cornerstone of both first-line and second-line chemotherapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Recently, several pivotal phase III randomized trials have been published. These studies and phase II trials will be discussed. Additionally, studies utilizing a taxane and radiation therapy for resectable and locally advanced NSCLC will be outlined. The article will end with a discussion on newer strategies being currently explored to improve survival in advanced NSCLC.

• Non-small cell lung cancer
• Chemotherapy
• Radiaion therapy
• Cisplatin
• Carboplatin
• Paclitaxel
• Docetaxel
• Gemcitabine
• Vinorelbine