This study will evaluate the toxicity and secondary the efficacy of the combination vinorelbine plus capecitabine in metastatic breast cancer patients

The combination capecitabine-vinorelbine, with iv administration of vinorelbine, has been studied in a phase [I]/[II], with favourable profile of toxicity in pretreated patients with anthracyclines and/or taxanes (Oncology News International vol 12, no 3, suppl 2, 2003).

In a study of toxicity and effectiveness, Vanhopher reported objective response rates (PR) in 21 from 45 patients (47%) and stabilization of disease (SD) in 16 patients (36%). Severe leucopenia (grade 4), was reported in 5% of patients (Borquez D, et al: Proc Am Soc Clin Oncol 19: Abstract 420, 2000)

Inclusion Criteria:

• Histologically confirmed metastatic breast cancer
• Age 18-75 years
• Bidimensionally measurable or evaluable disease
• Performance status (PS) 0-2 (ECOG)
• Patients with reproductive potential must use an adequate contraceptive method (e.g., abstinence, intrauterine device, oral contraceptives, barrier device with spermicide, or surgical sterilization) during treatment and for three months after completing treatment
• Adequate liver (serum bilirubin <1.5 times the upper normal limit, AST and ALT <2.5 times the UNL in the absence of demonstrable liver metastases, or <5 times the upper normal limit in the presence of liver metastases); adequate renal function (serum creatinine <1.5 times the upper normal limit); and adequate bone marrow function(neutrophils ≥ 1.5x 109 /L, and platelets ≥ 100x 109 /L)
• At least three weeks from completion of irradiation
• Life expectancy ≥ 12 weeks
• Patients able to take oral medication
• written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Active infection
• Brain metastases
• History of significant cardiac disease (unstable angina, congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction within the previous 6 months, ventricular arrhythmias)
• Malnutrition (loss of ≥ 20% of the original body weight)
• Psychiatric illness or social situation that would preclude study compliance
• Pregnant or lactating women