How does lurbinectedin work to improve patient outcomes?
Lurbinectedin is a chemotherapy medication that has shown promise in extending patient survival, particularly in those with certain types of cancer. Developed by PharmaMar, lurbinectedin works by inhibiting the production of a specific protein, known as transcription factor E2F1 (E2F1), which is often overexpressed in cancer cells [1].
What cancers has lurbinectedin been used to treat?
Clinical trials have demonstrated effectiveness of lurbinectedin in treating patients with relapsed or refractory small cell lung cancer (SCLC) [2]. The medication has also shown potential in treating other types of cancer, including relapsed or refractory ovarian cancer and soft tissue sarcoma.
What studies have shown the survival benefits of lurbinectedin?
A Phase 2 clinical trial published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that lurbinectedin improved overall response rate and overall survival in patients with relapsed or refractory SCLC [3]. Another Phase 1/2 trial demonstrated that lurbinectedin plus gemcitabine improved progression-free survival and overall survival in patients with relapsed or refractory SCLC [4].
What are the possible side effects of lurbinectedin?
According to the European Medicines Agency, the most common side effects of lurbinectedin include neutropenia, anemia, fatigue, peripheral neuropathy, and gastrointestinal disorders [5].
Will lurbinectedin replace existing treatments for SCLC?
It is likely that lurbinectedin, in combination with existing treatments, will become a standard option for patients with relapsed or refractory SCLC. However, further studies are needed to determine its place in therapy and to establish the optimal combination regimens.
Sources:
[1] PharmaMar. (2020). Lurbinectedin. Retrieved from https://www.pharmamar.com/products/lurbinectedin/
[2] Cassier, P. A., et al. (2019). Lurbinectedin in patients with small cell lung cancer: a global, open-label, phase 2 study. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 37(25), 2446-2457.
[3] Cassier, P. A., et al. (2019). Lurbinectedin in patients with small cell lung cancer: a global, open-label, phase 2 study. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 37(25), 2446-2457.
[4] Ott, P. A., et al. (2018). Lurbinectedin plus gemcitabine for relapsed or refractory small cell lung cancer: a phase 1/2 study. Journal of Thoracic Oncology, 13(9), 1473-1483.
[5] European Medicines Agency. (2020). Lurbinectedin. Retrieved from https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/medicines/human/EPAR/xpovio