BACKGROUNDTo observe the efficacy and toxicity of gemcitabine plus carboplatin (GCarb) versus gemcitabine plus cisplatin (GCis) in the treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODSForty patients with histologically confirmed NSCLC were randomized to enter the study. GCarb group:Gemcitabine 1 000 mg/m² IV on day 1,8; carboplatin AUC 4-6 IV on day 1. GCis group: Gemcitabine 1 000 mg/m² IV on day 1,8; cisplatin 30-40 mg/m² IV on day 1-3.

RESULTSThe response rate was 65% and 60% for GCarb group and GCis group respectively (P > 0.5). Toxicities included myelosuppression, digestive reaction, alopecia and rash. Digestive toxicity in GCarb group was less than that in GCis group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONSBoth GCarb and GCis regimes can be used as first-line protocol in the chemotherapy of non small cell lung cancer.