Dr. Backes on Rationale for Lenvatinib and Weekly Paclitaxel in Endometrial Cancer

Floor J. Backes, MD, associate professor, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, discusses the rationale and results from a phase I study exploring lenvatinib (Lenvima) and weekly paclitaxel in women with recurrent endometrial cancer.

The efficacy of weekly paclitaxel was largely unknown in this patient population, says Backes. However, anti-VEGF agents had shown prior activity in endometrial cancer. In the trial, investigators reported an objective response rate of 50% in patients with endometrial cancer, says Backes. Additionally, median progression-free survival was 12.8 months.

The study also suggested that the combination was well tolerated. Though, the most common grade ≥ 3 adverse events included hypertension, neutropenia, leukopenia, and anemia.

In the trial, investigators established a recommended phase II dose of 16 mg of daily lenvatinib and 80 mg/m² of weekly paclitaxel.

These results suggest benefit for this patient population; however, further testing in a larger clinical trial is necessary.