Irinotecan as second line chemotherapy in colorectal cancer (preliminary report)
Smithies A, Stein K
Record ID 31998009119
English
Authors' objectives:
To provide an overview of the use of irinotecan as second line chemotherapy in colorectal cancer.
Authors' recommendations:
There is evidence from observational studies that intravenous irinotecan given once every 3 weeks at a dosage of 350mg/m2 to patients with progressive metastatic colorectal cancer unresponsive to 5FU, exerts anti-tumour activity. These results have been confirmed in reports of randomised controlled trials which show a statistically significant improved survival for patients on irinotecan compared to either best supportive care or 5FU. Irinotecan appears to be a promising new agent in the treatment of colorectal cancer. However it is currently not possible to assess its cost effectiveness in detail.
In common with other cytotoxic agents irinotecan is commonly associated with adverse reactions. Frequent neutropenia and delayed diarrhoea are debilitating and in some cases life threatening.
Authors' methods:
Review
Details
Project Status:
Completed
URL for project:
http://www.wihrd.soton.ac.uk
Year Published:
1998
English language abstract:
An English language summary is available
Publication Type:
Not Assigned
Country:
England
MeSH Terms
- Antineoplastic Agents
- Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
- Costs and Cost Analysis
- Colorectal Neoplasms
Contact
Organisation Name:
Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development
Contact Address:
Pauline King. Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development, Boldrewood Medical School, Bassett Crescent East, Highfield, Southampton. SO16 7PX Tel. +44 1703 595661 Fax +44 1703 595662
Copyright:
Wessex Institute for Health Research and Development (WIHRD)
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