Authors' objectives:

To provide guidance on the use of docetaxel, paclitaxel, gemcitabine and vinorelbine for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.

Authors' recommendations: Guidance 1.1 Chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) should be considered as an option in patients who are unsuitable for, or considered unlikely to respond to an attempt at curative treatment. 1.2 Gemcitabine, paclitaxel, and vinorelbine should each be considered as part of first-line chemotherapy options for advanced (stage III and IV) NSCLC patients. Combination of these three agents individually with platinum-based chemotherapy, where tolerated, is likely to be the most effective approach. 1.3 Docetaxel monotherapy should be considered where second line treatment is appropriate for patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC when relapse has occurred after prior chemotherapy. 1.4 Chemotherapy regimens should be administered under the supervision of appropriately trained health professionals experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents and should be accompanied by best supportive care. Informed decisions regarding appropriate chemotherapy should take account of side effect profiles, use of concurrent radiotherapy, performance status of the individual being treated and patient and carer preferences. Total cost differences between the various chemotherapy regimens should also be taken into account.

Authors' methods: Systematic review

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.nice.org.uk/cat.asp?c=17338

Year Published: 2001

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England, United Kingdom

Organisation Name: National Institute for Clinical Excellence

Contact Address: MidCity Place, 71 High Holborn, London WC1V 6NA, UK. Tel: +44 020 7067 5800; Fax: +44 020 7067 5801

Contact Name: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Contact Email: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Copyright: National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE)