A Retrospective Analysis of the Efficacy of Oral Dexamethasone in Combination With Docetaxel Plus Ramucirumab Therapy for Previously Treated Lung Cancer

Abstract

Introduction Docetaxel plus ramucirumab (DTX + RAM) therapy is a standard treatment for previously treated lung cancer, but many adverse events have been reported. This retrospective study was conducted to examine if the side effects of DTX + RAM therapy can be minimized by the combined use of oral dexamethasone (DEX), and to assess the therapeutic effect of DTX + RAM in patients with recurrent lung cancer. Methods Forty patients with relapsed non-small cell lung cancer who underwent DTX + RAM therapy were divided into two groups based on the concomitant use of oral DEX, and the therapeutic effects and toxicities in the two groups were compared. Results The objective response rate (ORR) was significantly better in the DEX group ( P = 0.0203). The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5.20 months vs 2.87 months ( P = 0.064) in the DEX and non-DEX groups, respectively. However, the median overall survival (OS) was significantly better in the DEX group (15.17 months vs 7.37 months, P = 0.0317). The frequency of fluid retention within six months of the start of treatment was 10.0% vs 42.5% in the DEX and non-DEX groups, respectively, with the fluid retention rate being significantly higher in the non-DEX group ( P = 0.039). Conclusion Concomitant use of oral DEX during DTX + RAM therapy may facilitate the long-term continuation of treatment and contribute to OS prolongation.