fluorouracil + epirubicin + cyclophosphamide + paclitaxel

This is a combination chemotherapy regimen commonly used in the treatment of breast cancer, particularly in the adjuvant setting for early-stage disease and as first-line therapy for metastatic disease. The regimen includes four cytotoxic agents: - **Fluorouracil**: An antimetabolite that interferes with DNA synthesis, primarily by inhibiting thymidylate synthase. - **Epirubicin**: An anthracycline antibiotic that inhibits DNA and RNA synthesis, primarily through intercalation and inhibition of DNA topoisomerase II. - **Cyclophosphamide**: An alkylating agent that cross-links DNA, preventing cell replication. - **Paclitaxel**: A taxane that stabilizes microtubules, arresting cells in the mitotic phase and preventing cell division. The combination is typically administered sequentially, most commonly as Fluorouracil, Epirubicin, and Cyclophosphamide (FEC) cycles followed by Paclitaxel cycles, or less commonly, Paclitaxel followed by FEC. Clinical trials have demonstrated improved outcomes, such as disease-free survival, compared to some other regimens, like FEC alone. Common side effects include febrile neutropenia, peripheral neuropathy, nausea, vomiting, and alopecia. The specific toxicity profile can vary depending on the sequence of administration.

Other names

FEC followed by paclitaxelPaclitaxel followed by FECFEC-T