PACLITAXEL (TAXOL(R)) AND DOCETAXEL (TAXOTERE(R)) AS SINGLE AGENTS - RESULTS OF PHASE-II TRIALS

Paclitaxel (Taxol (R)) and docetaxel (Taxotere (R)) as single agents: results of phase II trials. The taxanes, paclitaxel and docetaxel, are the two presents clinically available representatives of a cytotoxic class with a new mechanism of action: they enhance microtubule assembl y and inhibit their depolymerization. Their activity has been demonstr ated in ovarian, breast and lung cancers. Paclitaxel and docetaxel are also promising agents in the treatment of head and neck, gastric and pancreatic cancer. Neutropenia is the dose limiting toxicity. Currentl y, use of premedication allows to circumvent hypersensitivity reaction s encountered earlier with paclitaxel. For docetaxel, measures to prev ent fluid retention are essential.