Introduction: A PEGylated form of irinotecan, a topoisomerase I inhibitor, is now available in commerce; its safety and efficacy have been tested in platinum resistant/refractory ovarian cancer (PROC) patients. This novel agent is known as Etirinotecan Pegol (EP). EP, like irinotecan, exerts its action through its principal metabolite SN-38. Areas covered: This drug evaluation article focuses on the most recent investigations and clinical progress regarding EP, a long-acting polymer conjugate of irinotecan for the treatment of PROC. Expert opinion: EP provides prolonged and continuous exposure of SN-38 in tumors, when compared to its parent drug irinotecan. Results from phase II studies are comparable in terms of efficacy to other agents of proven use in PROC. A limitation of the use of EP is the schedule-dependent toxicities (mainly diarrhea and dehydration). In the future, EP could be investigated in association with other agents, even in attempts to restore sensitivity to other treatments. PROC remains a very difficult setting and EP might be a valid agent for patients with good performance status that have exhausted therapeutic options. In such a setting, participation in clinical trials is strongly encouraged.
Keywords: Etirinotecan pegol; ovarian cancer; platinum resistant ovarian cancer; topoisomerase I inhibitors.