Overview of paclitaxel (Taxol) in advanced lung cancer.

Paclitaxel (TAXOL), a novel diterpene plant product isolated from the western yew Taxus brevifolia, is an active agent in the treatment of lung cancer. In two studies, the drug produced 21% and 24% objective response rates among patients with non-small cell lung cancer. A response rate of 34% was reported in a single trial involving patients with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer. Additional trials are needed to evaluate single-agent paclitaxel in the treatment of small cell lung cancer. Studies also are planned to measure the effect of paclitaxel as a radiosensitizer and in combination regimens with other active agents for the treatment of lung cancer.