Use of platinum-based chemotherapy doublets is the standard
of care for patients with advanced-stage non–small cell lung cancer, being
associated with improved survival compared with best supportive care in
fit patients with good performance status. Randomized studies showed that
the addition of monoclonal antibodies against vascular endothelial growth
factor receptor or epidermal growth factor receptor may increase the survival
compared to chemotherapy alone. Patients with either advanced age
or poor performance status can also benefit from chemotherapy. Docetaxel
with or without ramucirumab, pemetrexed, and erlotinib are approved for
previously treated patients. New treatment approaches are needed to improve
the outcomes in this patient population.