Bevacizumab (BEV) and paclitaxel (PAC) every two weeks as first-line treatment for advanced breast cancer (ABC). Preliminary results.

Abstract #4121 Background: Targeting angiogenesis is nowadays one of the most promising approaches for breast cancer. BEV, an anti- VEGF monoclonal antibody, was recently approved in combination with PAC for first-line treatment of ABC. Preliminary of a biweekly regimen of the combination are presented here.
 Patients-treatment: P with ABC were to receive, after appropriate premedication, BEV 10 mg/kg and PAC 135 mg/m2 with growth factors where necessary, q2weeks for six months; responders and stabilized P had to receive maintenance with BEV 15 mg/kg q3weeks until progression. This regimen was chosen instead of the established one standard ( PAC weekly ) for better patient convenience, while maintaining the same dose intensity for both drugs (for PAC the DI of the 3-weekly 175/m2 schedule).
 Results: Thirty one ( 31 ) , HER 2 negative women aged 39-63 ( average 55 )were enrolled. Toxicity was in general acceptable: Neutropenia/leucopenia grade III/IV, anaemia I/II, neuropathy grade III and manageable hypertension in 5, 3, 7, 6 P ( 16%, 9%, 22%, 19% ) respectively were observed. Efficacy : Two P experienced a complete response, 12 responded partially, 12 P with stable disease and 5 progressed. Overall response and disease control rates were 45% and 83% respectively. Results for PFS and OS are still immature.
 Conclusion: This biweekly BEV/PAC combination seems to be active with acceptable toxicity in ABC. The activity observed in the small-size population of this study should be assessed in a larger number of patients; if confirmed, BEV/PAC/q2w might represent an interesting alternative option for this group of patients as it has a clear advantage for patient9s convenience over the weekly regimen contributing to QoL preservation and saving of resources. Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 4121.