Objective: To review preclinical and clinical data for oxaliplatin in the current context of molecularly targeted therapy.
Methods of study selection: We searched the PubMed and PubChem databases by combining the search terms "oxaliplatin" or "platinum" or both, with "clinical trials," "pharmacokinetics," and "pharmacodynamics."
Data extraction and synthesis: Oxaliplatin has a complicated pharmacokinetic profile, with activity against digestive cancers in particular. It has several mechanisms of action, but cancer cells can develop resistance. Real or potential synergism has been observed when oxaliplatin is combined with other cytotoxic agents or molecularly targeted agents. Peripheral neuropathy is a prominent toxic effect.
Conclusions: Oxaliplatin lends itself to further clinical research in combination with molecularly targeted therapy.
Keywords: Oxaliplatin; chemotherapy; mechanism of action; targeted therapy.