A new docetaxel (DOC)-based triplet regimen does not improve the outcome of metastatic (M) or locally advanced (LA) gastric cancer (GC) as compared with an epirubicin (EPI) standard triplet regimen: A GISCAD trial

Background EOX (EPI + oxaliplatin-OHP + capecitabine-CAPE) is still one of the standard regimens for M or LA GC, but the role of EPI is today widely questioned and DOC replaced it in many institutions. A new DOC-based combination was developed with attempt at increasing efficacy/activity vs EOX without the heavy toxicity of the “classic” DOC regimen. Methods From 1/2013 to 11/2018, 169 previously untreated patients (pts) with M (87,6%) or LA GC were randomized by 23 centers between low-TOX (arm A) and EOX (arm B): Arm A: DOC: 35 mg/m2 iv, d 1 and 8 + OHP: 80 mg/m2 iv, d 1 + CAPE: 750 mg/ m2 x2 daily p.o. for 2 weeks Arm B: EPI: 50 mg/m2 iv, d 1 +OHP: 130 mg/m2 iv, d 1 +CAPE: 625 mg/m2 x2 daily p.o. for 3 weeks Both regimens recycled q 3 weeks If no PD or heavy toxicity, pts were programmed on therapy for a maximum of 5 (if CR) or 6 courses (if …