Sequential administration of irinotecan and cytarabine in the treatment of relapsed and refractory acute myeloid leukemia

Purpose: Based on reported synergy of the topoisomerase-I (topo-I) inhibitor irinotecan with antimetabolites, irinotecan and cytarabine (Ara-C) were administered sequentially to patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) refractory to or relapsed following high-dose Ara-C and anthracycline therapy. Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies were performed with the first irinotecan dose. Experimental Design: In vitro synergy of irinotecan followed by Ara-C was confirmed in a human AML cell line as a basis for the clinical trial. Irinotecan was administered daily for 5 days, with Ara-C 1 g/m² 12 h after each irinotecan dose. Irinotecan was initiated at 5 mg/m², and the dose was escalated by 5 mg/m² increments in cohorts of three patients and in individual patients. Pre-treatment samples were studied for topo-I activity and serial samples after the first irinotecan dose were analyzed for pharmacokinetics and for pharmacodynamic effects, including DNA damage and DNA synthesis rate. Results: The irinotecan dose reached 15 mg/m² in three-patient cohorts without reaching the maximum tolerated dose, and reached 30 mg/m² in individual patients. The AUC and C_max of both irinotecan and its active metabolite SN38 increased linearly in proportion to dose, and the mean half-lives of irinotecan conversion to SN38 and SN38 elimination were 6.2 h (CV 171%) and 7.2 h (CV 48%). Irinotecan rapidly induced DNA damage, and DNA synthesis inhibition varied among patients and treatment cycles. All courses resulted in rapid cytoreduction, and two patients achieved complete remission. Topo-I activity did not predict response. Conclusion: Irinotecan can be safely administered with Ara-C. This combination is active in refractory AML and warrants further study.