The potential of sunitinib as a therapy in ovarian cancer.

INTRODUCTION

Sunitinib malate (SU11248; Sutent®; Pfizer, Inc., New York) is a multi-kinase inhibitor currently approved for use in advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC), imatinib-resistant/-intolerant gastrointestinal stromal tumours and progressive, well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours in patients with unresectable, locally advanced or metastatic disease.

AREAS COVERED

This article describes the mechanism of action and of the pharmacokinetics of sunitinib; further, it summarizes Phase I and II trials on the clinical efficacy, tolerability and safety of this agent in the setting of ovarian cancer (OC) treatment.

EXPERT OPINION

On the basis of the current literature, sunitinib has shown modest antitumour activity and acceptable toxicity. Studies investigating the impact of horizontal and vertical combinations should represent a priority of future research. Although clinical Phase II trials on the use of sunitinib in the treatment of OC demonstrated an acceptable profile of AEs, a greater comprehension of the toxicity of this compound is recommended.