Feasibility study of zoledronic acid plus cisplatin-docetaxel as first-line treatment for advanced non-small cell lung cancer with bone metastases.

BACKGROUND: This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of combined zoledronic acid, cisplatin and docetaxel in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with bone metastases.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: Cisplatin 80 mg/m(2) and docetaxel 60 mg/m(2) with zoledronic acid 4 mg were given intravenously on day 1 every 3-4 weeks. The primary endpoint was feasibility of concomitant administration of zoledronic acid and cisplatin.

RESULTS: Thirty-five chemonaïve patients were enrolled. The median number of treatment cycles was four, and two or more cycles were administered in 29 (83%) patients without severe toxicity. No grade 3 or 4 renal toxicity was observed. The objective response rate was 29% and the 1-year survival rate was 37%. The pain score improved in 77% of the patients after six weeks.

CONCLUSION: The combination of zoledronic acid, cisplatin and docetaxel is well-tolerated with acceptable renal toxicity, and has modest activity as a first-line treatment of NSCLC patients with bone metastases.