Pazopanib for the treatment of renal cancer

Areas covered: This review discusses the scientific rationale for the development of pazopanib, as well as the preclinical and clinical trials that led to the approval of pazopanib for patients with advanced RCC. The most recent information, including data from the 2010 meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the design of ongoing Phase III trials, is discussed. Finally, an algorithm utilizing level I evidence for the treatment of patients with this disease is proposed. Expert opinion: The treatment of metastatic RCC has changed dramatically over the last 5 years. Six novel agents -- sunitinib, sorafenib, temsirolimus, everolimus, bevacizumab (used in combination with interferon), and pazopanib (Votrient) -- have been approved for the treatment of metastatic RCC. The clinical data to date clearly place pazopanib among the most active of the targeted therapies.