Regorafenib for treatment of imatinib- and sunitinib-resistant metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumors

Molly M. Daughety, Michael C. Heinrich

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Introduction: The treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) has been transformed by the use of small molecule KIT/PDGFRA tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Unfortunately, most GIST tumors develop resistance to front-line (imatinib) and second-line (sunitinib) therapy. Regorafenib, a multi-targeted KIT/PDGFRA/VEGFR oral TKI, has been shown to improve progression-free survival in the third- or fourth-line setting. Areas covered: This review encompasses the pre-clinical and clinical studies of regorafenib for treatment of GIST. The reviewed studies were all those retrievable using the PubMed database as of December 2015. Expert opinion: Based on the results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase III study, regorafenib is now firmly established as the only proven third-line therapy. Regorafenib’s activity in this setting is believed to be due to its activity against oncogenic forms of KIT/PDGFRA. Side effects are common with this agent; however, they can be effectively managed with a combination of supportive care, dose interruptions and dose reductions. In frail patients, starting at a lower dose with subsequent dose escalation/de-escalation may improve tolerance and optimize treatment. Regorafenib’s toxicity profile is similar to other oral TKIs with anti-VEGFR activity. Regorafenib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and concomitant use of strong inducers/inhibitors of this enzyme should be avoided.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)659-670
Number of pages12
JournalExpert Opinion on Orphan Drugs
Volume4
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2 2016

Keywords

  • GI stromal tumor
  • KIT
  • PDGFRA
  • Sarcoma
  • VEGFR
  • tyrosine kinase inhibitors

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics (miscellaneous)
  • Health Policy
  • Pharmacology (medical)

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