Prolonged remissions of metastatic breast cancer achieved with a six-drug regimen of relatively low toxicity

The study investigated a six-drug chemotherapy regimen for 30 women with unresectable metastatic breast cancer, showing a 66.7% overall response rate. The treatment involved a combination of Cytoxan, methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil, vincristine, and prednisolone (CMFVP) initially, followed by a cycle including Adriamycin, cyclophosphamide, and prednisone (ACP). Premenopausal women had better outcomes, with a response rate of 81.5% and a median survival of 56 months, compared to 50% and 27 months for postmenopausal women. Seven premenopausal patients achieved complete response, with three remaining disease-free for over 34 months without further therapy. The regimen was noted for its relatively low toxicity, primarily causing heartburn and modest hair loss, and was suggested to be more effective than previous treatments, though further comparative trials were needed.