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Cisplatin plus Etoposide

Azienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale degli Spedali Civili di Brescia · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Cisplatin and etoposide work together as chemotherapy agents—cisplatin cross-links DNA to prevent replication, while etoposide inhibits topoisomerase II to block DNA unwinding and repair.

Cisplatin and etoposide work together as chemotherapy agents—cisplatin cross-links DNA to prevent replication, while etoposide inhibits topoisomerase II to block DNA unwinding and repair. Used for Small cell lung cancer, Testicular cancer, Ovarian cancer.

At a glance

Generic nameCisplatin plus Etoposide
Also known asAdjuvant Chemotherapy
SponsorAzienda Socio Sanitaria Territoriale degli Spedali Civili di Brescia
Drug classChemotherapy combination (platinum agent + topoisomerase II inhibitor)
TargetDNA (cisplatin: alkylating agent); Topoisomerase II (etoposide)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Cisplatin is a platinum-based alkylating agent that forms covalent bonds with DNA, creating interstrand and intrastrand crosslinks that prevent DNA replication and transcription. Etoposide is a topoisomerase II inhibitor that stabilizes the enzyme-DNA complex, preventing religation of DNA strands and leading to double-strand breaks. Together, they provide synergistic cytotoxic effects against rapidly dividing cancer cells.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results