Oral topotecan: bioavailability and effect of food co-administration
1999

Effect of Food on Oral Topotecan Bioavailability

Sample size: 18 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Herben V M M, Rosing H, Huinink W W ten Bokkel, Zomeren D M van, Batchelor D, Doyle E, Beusenberg F D, Beijnen J H, Schellens J H M

Primary Institution: Slotervaart Hospital/The Netherlands Cancer Institute

Hypothesis

Does food affect the bioavailability of oral topotecan in patients with solid tumors?

Conclusion

Food intake slightly decreases the absorption rate of oral topotecan but does not affect the overall extent of absorption.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study involved 18 patients with solid tumors.
  • The absolute bioavailability of topotecan averaged 42 ± 13%.
  • Maximal plasma concentrations of topotecan were similar with and without food.
  • The time to reach maximal plasma levels was significantly longer after food intake.
  • The apparent terminal half-life was significantly longer after oral administration compared to intravenous.

Takeaway

This study looked at how eating food affects a cancer medicine called topotecan. It found that while food slows down how quickly the medicine gets into the body, it doesn't change how much of it gets absorbed.

Methodology

The study used a randomized two-period cross-over design with patients receiving oral topotecan with or without food and comparing it to intravenous administration.

Participant Demographics

Patients with solid tumors

Statistical Information

P-Value

P = 0.130; P = 0.013; P < 0.001

Confidence Interval

90% CI 0.83–1.03; 90% CI 37–47%

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6690532

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