Comparison of Gefitinib versus Docetaxel in Patients with Pre-Treated Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)

More effective treatments in first, second, and third-line of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) enable patients to live longer, w ith a better quality of life (QOL). Especially epiderm al growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) contributed to this im provem ent. Gefitinib was com pared with Docetaxel in four random ized trials, i.e., SIGN, Japanese V-1532, Korean ISTANA, and INTEREST in second or third-line treatm ent of metastatic NSCLC. In all the trials, and also by meta-analysis of 2,257 patients in these trials, Gefitinib was found non-inferior or superior to Docetaxel, w ith less toxicity, convenient oral administration, and better QOL. Detailed results are presented in the review article. Knowing that every line of treatm ent we m ay lose about 50% of patients for further treatm ent, it is very im portant to offer each patient the best option for every line of treatm ent. Gefitinib has a favorable benefit-risk profile com pared with Docetaxel in this patient population. (J Lung Cancer 2009;8(2):61󰠏 66)