Phase I study of 3-deazauridine in the treatment of adults with solid tumors.

A phase I trial of the uridine analog 3-deazauridine was undertaken in 44 adults with solid tumors. The drug was given as a 5-day continuous infusion repeated every 3-4 weeks. The dose-limiting toxic effect was granulocytopenia. Patients with prior nitrosourea therapy or extensive irradiation also had significant thrombocytopenia, and the lowest dose tested, 800 mg/m2/day, was excessive for this group. Mucositis was occasionally severe and was particularly marked in previously irradiated areas. Nausea was mild to moderate. There were isolated episodes of rash, headache, chest pain, and blurred vision. For patients without extensive prior therapy, the recommended dose is 1000 mg/m2/day. No complete or partial remissions were noted.