Phase II trial of methylglyoxal-bis-(guanylhydrazone) in non-small-cell lung cancer.

Fifty-two patients with metastatic or recurrent non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were treated, during a phase II trial, with methylglyoxal-bis-(guanylhydrazone) (MGBG). Of the 44 patients who had adequate trials, 4 had partial responses (PR), for an overall 9% PR rate. Response durations ranged from 3 to 5+ months. Prior treatment with chemotherapy may have adversely affected response rate; 15% of previously untreated patients responded, compared to only 4% of previously treated patients. A syndrome of weakness and fatigue was the most serious side effect. Anorexia and weight loss, stomatitis, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and peripheral neuropathy were the other toxic effects. We conclude that MGBG has activity in NSCLC, especially in previously untreated patients, and further studies are indicated in that population.