Tarceva (erlotinib) and Iressa (gefitnib) are both agents targeted against the EGFR pathway. This pathway is involved in cell growth and replication and when mutated or altered, excessive replication of cells can occur. These agents reduce the uncontrolled replication and growth of cancer cells by blocking mutated EGFR pathways.

According to an article published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, the targeted agent Tarceva may provide anticancer responses for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who stop responding to Iressa. These drugs are not associated with the side effects of chemotherapy, providing an effective alternative for patients who are not eligible for standard therapy.

A study was done to evaluate the effectiveness of Tarceva among patients who stopped responding to Iressa. The researchers concluded that -- Patients with NSCLC who demonstrate disease control with Iressa and do not have EGFR mutations appear to have benefit from treatment with Tarceva once their cancer progresses following their treatment with Iressa. Patients with recurrent NSCLC may wish to speak with their physician regarding their individual risks and benefits of treatment with Tarceva.

A report published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute has stated that cisplatin has better response rates than carboplatin in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer.

The two main types of lung cancer, accounting for over 90 percent of all lung cancers, are non-small cell and small cell cancer. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for most of that 90 percent.

Advanced NSCLC means that the patient's cancer has spread to other organs or areas of the body. There has been research done to evaluate which drug is better for NSCLC -- cisplatin or carboplatin. Nine clinical trials were analyzed to see what regime is a better treatment option.