Dr. Hirsch Discusses the Role of Next-Generation EGFR Inhibitors

Fred R. Hirsch, MD, PhD Professor of Medicine and Pathology, Associate Director for International Programs, University of Colorado Cancer Center, discusses the role of next-generation EGFR inhibitors for patients with non-small cell lung cancer.

Many patients develop resistance to first-generation EGFR inhibitors through the acquisition of a T790M mutation. However, the next-generation EGFR TKIs seem to overcome this specific mutation, Hirsch says. This gives physicians new hope to treat patients after they have become resistant to first-generation EGFR TKIs.

In addition to the continued efficacy in resistant patients, the new generation of EGFR TKIs are also better tolerated compared to the first generation of EGFR TKIs. Further research is needed to determine if these next-generation EGFR inhibitors can be combined with other agents in order get closer to a cure, Hirsch states.

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