
In the second panel of the Advancements in Oncology event, held on Saturday, June 1, The Oncology Brothers, Rahul Gosain, MD, MBA, and Rohit Gosain, MD, sat down with Cathy Eng, MD, FACP, FASCO, of Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, to discuss gastrointestinal cancer-related data from the 2024 American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting.
Together, they delved into the nuances of dosing strategies for TAS-102 and fruquintinib for colorectal cancer, shedding light on their clinical experiences and insights.
Dosing Discrepancies, Practical Application
Dr. Rahul Gosain initiated the conversation by questioning the disparity between the approved dosing regimen for TAS-102 and its practical application in clinical settings. Dr. Eng revealed her alternative dosing approach of every other week, which she found to be better tolerated, while also highlighting the need for further publication on the subject.
The discussion expanded to the integration of bevacizumab with the treatment regimen. Dr. Eng emphasized the importance of managing side effects, particularly with fruquintinib. She underscored the significance of patient communication and education in this regard.
Fruquintinib Dosing Considerations
Dr. Rahul Gosain raised a pertinent question about the dosing strategy for fruquintinib, prompting a discussion on whether to start at a lower dose and escalate or initiate treatment at the recommended dose. Dr. Eng shared her experience of starting at the recommended dose and very rarely having to reduce the dose from there.
The conversation shifted to a comparison with regorafenib and the influence of its dose escalation on perceptions about fruquintinib. Dr. Eng acknowledged the precedent set by regorafenib but expressed confidence in the current dosing strategy for fruquintinib based on her clinical experience.
Value of Clinical Trials
Dr. Rahul Gosain concluded by emphasizing the importance of sharing clinical trial experiences and discussions in community settings to inform treatment decisions and enhance patient care.
View the next segment of this session: From Plenary to Practice: Dr. Cathy Eng’s Perspective on Upper GI Cancer Innovations.