CCNU (1-[2-chloroethyl]-3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea, NSC-79037) in the treatment of cancer. Phase II study

Abstract

CCNU (1-[2-chloroethyl]-3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosourea, NSC-79037), was used to treat 141 evaluable patients with a variety of advanced malignancies, 56% of whom had not received prior chemotherapy. Patients with an adequate bone marrow reserve received 130 mg/m2 as the initial dose and those with an impaired reserve received 100 mg/m2. Therapy was repeated every 6 weeks and the dosage modified according to the hematologic toxicity. Responses greater than 50% reduction in tumor size were noted in 26 patients; stable disease or reduction in tumor size of less than 50% was observed in 21 patients. The well-differentiated adenocarcinomas and squamous cell tumors appeared to be least sensitive to CCNU. Bone marrow depression was the major dose-limiting factor. Without adequate antiemetic therapy, all patients would have had nausea and vomiting. Hepatocellular toxicity was noted in two patients.