Brian Rini, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Department of Solid Tumor Oncology, Cleveland Clinic, discusses the oral targeted therapy axitinib (Inlyta), a targeted agent that selectively inhibits receptors 1,2, and 3 of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

Axitinib is distinguished from other VEGF inhibitors by the AXIS 1032 trial comparing axitinib and sorafenib (Nexavar). The AXIS trial was the first trial to compare targeted therapies to each other in advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Axitinib exhibited a 2-month increase in progression-free survival and more than a doubled objective response rate compared to sorafenib.

Trials comparing active agents provide the ability to compare relative advantages and disadvantages for efficacy and toxicity. It allows researchers to develop the correct sequences and determine which drugs may be better in certain circumstances.

Pfizer Inc filed a new drug application with the FDA in June seeking approval for the drug as a treatment for advanced RCC. On January 27, 2012 the FDA approved axitinib. Read more >>> FDA Approves Axitinib for Advanced Kidney Cancer Patients