Summary of data from in vitro and phase I vinorelbine (Navelbine) studies.

The semisynthetic vinca alkaloid vinorelbine (Navelbine; Burroughs Wellcome Co, Research Triangle Park, NC; Pierre Fabre Médicament, Paris, France) is unique in its chemical structure, microtubule selectivity, and neurotoxicity profile. In preclinical studies, vinorelbine showed encouraging activity against a variety of cell lines and human xenografts. In phase I studies, partial responses were noted in a variety of tumor types, including lung, breast, and head and neck cancers; melanoma; and lymphoma. Toxicity has centered around neutropenia, with minimal nonhematologic toxicity observed. Neurotoxicity has been primarily limited to reversible paresthesias. Because of its broad spectrum of antitumor activity and mild toxicity profile, vinorelbine is a promising anticancer agent.