Novel Combinations with Docetaxel in the Treatment of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer

The treatment of advanced-stage lung cancer continues to be challenging. Cytotoxic chemotherapy doublets have modestly improved survival and have emphasized more quality of life issues. Many novel targeted agents are in clinical development and could have potential to treat patients with lung cancer whose tumors are refractory to standard cytotoxic regimens. Targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor as well as the vascular endothelial growth factor pathways appears promising. Combining these targeted agents with chemotherapy might help improve overall efficacy. Docetaxel is an active chemotherapeutic agent that has been studied in combination with multiple biologic agents. With continued study, optimizing these combinations for specific patient populations will be the key to improving overall efficacy.