Carboplatin (JM8) as a single agent and in combination in the treatment of small cell lung cancer.

Carboplatin, a cisplatin analogue without significant nephrotoxicity, was used as a single agent in the treatment of 56 patients with small cell lung carcinoma at a dose of 300-400 mg/m2 i.v. monthly. Twenty-three patients (41%) achieved a response including 5 (9%) complete remissions. Eighteen (60%) of 30 previously untreated patients achieved a response. The drug was well tolerated with nausea or vomiting in only 43% of patients and no nephrotoxicity was seen. Myelosuppression was dose limiting and 39% of patients developed leukopenia. In a subsequent study carboplatin in a dose of 300 mg/m2 was used in combination with etoposide 100 mg/m2 i.v. days 1-3, repeating monthly for 4 courses. So far 32 (89%) of 36 evaluable patients have achieved a response. In patients with limited disease 20/23 patients (87%) have responded including 7 (30%) complete remissions. Leukopenia was dose limiting and occurred in 83% of patients. Carboplatin is a highly active new drug in the treatment of small cell lung cancer.