“While the nature of cancer is complex, scientists believe cancer begins and spreads through growth factors which prompt improper cell duplication. The epidermal growth factor (EGF) is one of the stimuli to this cell duplication. The process begins when EGF connects to a receptor (EGFR). By preventing this connection, Iressa aims to show the cancer process and has shown promising results in some clinical trials for non-small cell lung cancer .”
“Many believed that combining Iressa with chemotherapy would become the standard treatment. Since Iressa's side effects are generally limited, it was hoped the drug could be added to standard chemotherapy to create a powerful drug combination to fight lung cancer for non-small cell lung cancer, and perhaps other diseases.”
Complete report “IRESSA (ZD1839) REVIEW and EPIDERMAL GROWTH FACTOR INHIBITORS” at http://www.lungcancerclaims.com/iressaold.htm
Other information on Iressa:
http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/62/20/5749.long
aliotta.com “DIPG Family Help” section listed “two children who are doing well on Iressa (aka gefitinib, ZD1839).”
Dasia Atkinson - Diagnosed 03/23/2005. Dasia showed significant tumor shrinkage and continues to do well.
Aidan Zaugg - Diagnosed 04/14/2006. In summer 2008, Aidan's tumor returned and Aidan continued the battle, though his tumor was held off for nearly two years from diagnosis, w/ totally symptom free.
