Metronomic chemotherapy in non‑small cell lung cancer (Review)

  • Authors:
    • Yefei Shu
    • Shanshan Weng
    • Song Zheng
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  • Published online on: September 29, 2020     https://doi.org/10.3892/ol.2020.12170
  • Article Number: 307
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Abstract

Metronomic chemotherapy (MCT) is defined as the rhythmic chemotherapy of low‑dose cytotoxic drugs with short or no drug‑free breaks over prolonged periods. MCT affects tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment. Particularly, the low‑dose schedule impairs the repair process of endothelial cells, resulting in an anti‑angiogenesis effect. By stimulating the immune system to eliminate tumor cells, MCT induces immunological activation. Furthermore, combined with targeted therapy, anti‑angiogenic drugs enhance the efficacy of MCT. The present review is an overview of phase I, II and III clinical trials focusing on the efficacy, toxicity and mechanism of MCT in patients with non‑small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Furthermore, the prospects of MCT in NSCLC have been discussed. The present review indicated that MCT is an efficacious treatment for selected patients with NSCLC, with acceptable systemic side effects and economic viability for public health.
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December-2020
Volume 20 Issue 6

Print ISSN: 1792-1074
Online ISSN:1792-1082

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Spandidos Publications style
Shu Y, Weng S and Zheng S: Metronomic chemotherapy in non‑small cell lung cancer (Review). Oncol Lett 20: 307, 2020
APA
Shu, Y., Weng, S., & Zheng, S. (2020). Metronomic chemotherapy in non‑small cell lung cancer (Review). Oncology Letters, 20, 307. https://doi.org/10.3892/ol.2020.12170
MLA
Shu, Y., Weng, S., Zheng, S."Metronomic chemotherapy in non‑small cell lung cancer (Review)". Oncology Letters 20.6 (2020): 307.
Chicago
Shu, Y., Weng, S., Zheng, S."Metronomic chemotherapy in non‑small cell lung cancer (Review)". Oncology Letters 20, no. 6 (2020): 307. https://doi.org/10.3892/ol.2020.12170