panitumumab + cisplatin + 5-fluorouracil

**Panitumumab + cisplatin + 5-fluorouracil** is an investigational combination regimen involving a monoclonal antibody (panitumumab) targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and two small molecule chemotherapeutic agents (cisplatin, a platinum-based alkylating agent, and 5-fluorouracil, an antimetabolite). Panitumumab acts as an antagonist of EGFR, blocking ligand binding and receptor activation, thereby inhibiting cellular proliferation and promoting apoptosis in EGFR-expressing tumor cells[4][8]. Cisplatin causes DNA crosslinking and damage, leading to apoptosis, while 5-fluorouracil inhibits thymidylate synthase, interfering with DNA synthesis and repair. This specific three-drug regimen has been investigated as first-line therapy for locally advanced or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus (ESCC) and for squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN), with the aim of improving overall survival compared to chemotherapy alone[1][3]. The use of panitumumab in this combination is based on the hypothesis that EGFR inhibition may enhance the therapeutic efficacy of cytotoxic chemotherapy.

Brand names

Vectibix + cisplatin + fluorouracil

Other names

panitumumab plus cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil