VINBLASTINE GIVEN AS A CONTINUOUS 5-DAY INFUSION IN THE TREATMENT OF REFRACTORY ADVANCED BREAST-CANCER

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  • 1 January 1980
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 64  (2-3) , 279-283
Abstract
To improve the therapeutic index of vinblastine by maintaining a prolonged constant plasma level, it was given as a continuous 5-day infusion at 1.4-2.0 mg/m2 per day. Among the 30 evaluable patients with advanced refractory breast cancer who were extensively treated previously, there were 1 complete and 11 partial responders, with an overall response rate of 40%. Six of the 12 patients who had previously received a conventional dose schedule of vinca alkaloids responded, including 2 who had progressed with intermittent bolus i.v. injections of vinblastine. Responses were seen in all organ sites of involvement, with durations of 2-8+ mo. (median, 6). Myelosuppression was mild to moderate at doses of between 1.4 and 1.8 mg/m2 per day, but became severe at 2 mg/m2, with leukopenia (wbc [white blood cells], < 2000/mm3) and granulocytopenia (absolute granulocytes, < 1000/mm3) occurring in 75% of administered courses. Other toxic effects were infrequent and acceptable. Vinblastine given as a continuous 5-day infusion apparently is highly effective in the treatment of patients with advanced metastatic breast cancer, including a few whose disease was felt to be resistant to a conventional dose schedule of vinca alkaloids.