Using a combination of the platinum-based drug oxilplatin and docetaxel has shown signs of being beneficial to patients with stomach cancer during a trial.

Preliminary findings from a phase II clinical study suggest that the combination of docetaxel and oxaliplatin is associated with good activity and manageable toxicity in patients with Stage IV gastroesophageal cancer and stomach cancer.

"We are very pleased with the results," said the principal investigator, Donald Richards.

"This study shows response rates and overall survival equivalent to any of the front-line regimens currently available for gastric cancer. However, overall toxicity of the treatment is less than reported for many of the regimens. Overall these patients tolerated the treatment very well."

He added: "We are delighted the study was accepted for presentation at this important conference and for the opportunity to share the results of our research with our peers."

According to the researchers, 70 subjects were enrolled in the study.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd