Combining Nolatrexed and Paclitaxel for Cancer Treatment
Author Information
Author(s): Hughes A N, Griffin M J, Newell D R, Calvert A H, Johnston A, Kerr B, Lee C, Liang B, Boddy A V
Primary Institution: Cancer Research Unit, Medical School, University of Newcastle upon Tyne
Hypothesis
Can the combination of nolatrexed dihydrochloride and paclitaxel optimize treatment schedules and reveal pharmacokinetic interactions?
Conclusion
Nolatrexed and paclitaxel can be safely administered together, but paclitaxel doses should be reduced during nolatrexed infusion due to pharmacokinetic interactions.
Supporting Evidence
- Three patients were entered on each of three different schedules of administration of the two drugs.
- Synergistic growth inhibition was observed in vitro on schedule 2.
- Patients on schedules 1 and 3 had a higher clearance of paclitaxel than those on schedule 2.
- Peak plasma concentrations of paclitaxel were higher on schedule 2.
- Nolatrexed was found to inhibit the metabolism of paclitaxel.
Takeaway
This study looked at how two cancer drugs can work together. It found that while they can be given together safely, one drug might need to be given in smaller amounts when the other is used.
Methodology
The study involved clinical administration of drugs to patients and in vitro growth inhibition studies on cancer cell lines.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and focused on specific schedules of drug administration.
Participant Demographics
Patients with head and neck cancer were included in the study.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website