Taxanes in the treatment of advanced (stage III and IV) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): Recent developments

Taxanes, paclitaxel. and docetaxel have become the cornerstone of both first-line and second-line chemotherapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Recently, several pivotal phase III randomized trials have been published. These studies and phase II trials will be discussed. Additionally, studies utilizing a taxane and radiation therapy for resectable and locally advanced NSCLC will be outlined. The article will end with a discussion on newer strategies being currently explored to improve survival in advanced NSCLC.