Temozolomide for the treatment of small cell lung cancer

Temozolomide in combination with nivolumab produced promising overall response rates (ORR) in patients who had previously received chemotherapy for extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). But the researchers found that only those with platinum-sensitive disease realized the benefits of the combination. Twenty-five ES-SCLC patients who progressed after first-line chemoimmunotherapy were included in the study results.

In patients with treated and untreated brain metastases who were part of the cohort, at a median follow-up of 6.3 months, the ORR was 28% and the response rate in platinum-sensitive patients was 47%. The ORR was 20% in patients with brain metastases and 20% in patients without brain metastases. Regarding safety, 96% of patients experienced at least 1 treatment-related adverse effect (TRAE) of any grade, with 70% experiencing a grade 3 or higher TRAE. The most common TRAEs of any grade included decreased lymphocyte count, fatigue, anemia, vomiting, weight loss, nausea, decreased platelet count, and general muscle weakness. One treatment-related death was reported attributed to COVID-19. Although trials have shown that the combination of temozolomide andnivolumab has clinical benefits, this indication has not yet been approved for use, and patients are not allowed to use the medication at will.

The original drug temozolomide has been launched in China and has entered the scope of Class B medical insurance. Common specificationsThe price of 100mg*1 tablet*5 bags per box may be around 2,000 yuan. The generic drugs of temozolomide marketed overseas are relatively low-priced, and their drug ingredients are basically the same as those of the original drug of temozolomide. For example, the price of a box of 100mg*5 produced by a Bangladeshi pharmaceutical factory may be around a few hundred yuan (the price may fluctuate due to exchange rates).