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Lymphoma GDP (gemcitabine dexamethasone ciSplatin)

Patients with lymphoma should be considered for inclusion into clinical trials. Link to ALLG website, ANZCTR website and Lymphoma Australia website.

The anticancer drug(s) in this protocol may have been included in the ADDIKD guideline. Dose recommendations in kidney dysfunction have yet to be updated to align with the ADDIKD guideline. Recommendations will be updated once the individual protocol has been evaluated by the reference committee. For further information refer to the ADDIKD guideline. To assist with calculations, use the eviQ Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) calculator.

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Cycle 1 and 2

Drug Dose Route Day
Dexamethasone 40 mg ONCE a day PO 1 to 4
Gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 IV infusion 1 and 8
ciSplatin 75 mg/m2 IV infusion * 1

* Please note the dilution and hydration associated with cisplatin in this protocol has been based on regimens used in the NCIC-CTG LY.12r trial and differs from the standard cisplatin hydration used on eviQ.

Frequency:
21 days 
Cycles:
2 to 3, responding patients may be considered for high dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplant otherwise, continue up to a total of 6 cycles, unless disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Notes:
  • It is the consensus of the eviQ Reference committee that cisplatin may be substituted with carboplatin (5 AUC) in patients with renal impairment (See Dose modifications section). If estimated GFR is greater than 125 mL/min (i.e. 5 AUC dose greater than 750 mg), obtaining direct measurement rather than an estimated renal function and/or dose capping is strongly recommended.
  • Rituximab may be added to this protocol for patients with CD20+ non-Hodgkin lymphoma (see ID 3788 Non-Hodgkin lymphoma R-GDP). 
Drug status:

All drugs in this protocol are on the PBS general schedule

Dexamethasone is available as 0.5 mg and 4 mg tablets

Cost:
~ $280 per cycle "How this cost is calculated"

The cost displayed on the protocol is intended as rudimentary guide only for the Australian context.

The cost includes anti-cancer drugs only (not antiemetics, supportive medications or consumables), unless otherwise indicated.

Drug unit costs are taken directly from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) website (www.pbs.gov.au), MIMS Online and other sources. These costs are reviewed and updated on eviQ at 6 monthly intervals.

Where there are differing unit costs based on vial sizes and tablet strengths, the mean unit cost is used. The cost of oral continuous therapy is based on a 28 day month.

The protocol cost is derived from drug dose calculations based upon a default body surface area (BSA) of 1.8 m2; weight of 75 kg; and creatinine clearance of 75 mL/min.

One off loading doses and ongoing maintenance doses are not included in protocol cost calculations.

The cost displayed is the actual drug cost and does not necessarily reflect the cost incurred by the patient as many anti-cancer drugs are reimbursed on the PBS.

The supportive therapies (e.g. antiemetics, premedications, etc.), infusion times, diluents, volumes and routes of administration, if included, are listed as defaults. They may vary between institutions and can be substituted to reflect individual institutional policy.

Antiemetics if included in the treatment schedule are based upon recommendations from national and international guidelines. These are defaults only and may be substituted to reflect individual institutional policy. Select here for recommended doses of alternative antiemetics.

Cycle 1 and 2

Day 1
Netupitant 300 mg (PO)

60 minutes before chemotherapy (fixed dose preparation with palonosetron) 
Palonosetron 0.5 mg (PO)

60 minutes before chemotherapy (fixed dose preparation with netupitant)
Dexamethasone 40 mg (PO) ONCE a day orally in the morning with food
Gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 (IV infusion) in 100 mL to 500 mL sodium chloride 0.9% over 30 minutes
ciSplatin 75 mg/m2 (IV infusion) in 500 mL sodium chloride 0.9% over 60 minutes
Day 2 to 4
Dexamethasone 40 mg (PO) ONCE a day orally in the morning with food
Day 8
Metoclopramide 10 mg (PO)

one tablet when necessary (maximum of 30 mg/24 hours, up to 5 days)
Gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 (IV infusion) in 100 mL to 500 mL sodium chloride 0.9% over 30 minutes

* Please note the dilution and hydration associated with cisplatin in this protocol has been based on regimens used in the NCIC-CTG LY.12r trial and differs from the standard cisplatin hydration used on eviQ.

Frequency:
21 days 
Cycles:
2 to 3, responding patients may be considered for high dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplant otherwise, continue up to a total of 6 cycles, unless disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

Cycle 1 and 2

Drug Dose Route Day
Dexamethasone 40 mg ONCE a day PO 1 to 4
Gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 IV infusion 1 and 8
ciSplatin 75 mg/m2 IV infusion * 1

* Please note the dilution and hydration associated with cisplatin in this protocol has been based on regimens used in the NCIC-CTG LY.12r trial and differs from the standard cisplatin hydration used on eviQ.

Frequency:
21 days 
Cycles:
2 to 3, responding patients may be considered for high dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplant otherwise, continue up to a total of 6 cycles, unless disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Notes:
  • It is the consensus of the eviQ Reference committee that cisplatin may be substituted with carboplatin (5 AUC) in patients with renal impairment (See Dose modifications section). If estimated GFR is greater than 125 mL/min (i.e. 5 AUC dose greater than 750 mg), obtaining direct measurement rather than an estimated renal function and/or dose capping is strongly recommended.
  • Rituximab may be added to this protocol for patients with CD20+ non-Hodgkin lymphoma (see ID 3788 Non-Hodgkin lymphoma R-GDP). 
Drug status:

All drugs in this protocol are on the PBS general schedule

Dexamethasone is available as 0.5 mg and 4 mg tablets

Cost:
~ $280 per cycle "How this cost is calculated"

The cost displayed on the protocol is intended as rudimentary guide only for the Australian context.

The cost includes anti-cancer drugs only (not antiemetics, supportive medications or consumables), unless otherwise indicated.

Drug unit costs are taken directly from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) website (www.pbs.gov.au), MIMS Online and other sources. These costs are reviewed and updated on eviQ at 6 monthly intervals.

Where there are differing unit costs based on vial sizes and tablet strengths, the mean unit cost is used. The cost of oral continuous therapy is based on a 28 day month.

The protocol cost is derived from drug dose calculations based upon a default body surface area (BSA) of 1.8 m2; weight of 75 kg; and creatinine clearance of 75 mL/min.

One off loading doses and ongoing maintenance doses are not included in protocol cost calculations.

The cost displayed is the actual drug cost and does not necessarily reflect the cost incurred by the patient as many anti-cancer drugs are reimbursed on the PBS.

The supportive therapies (e.g. antiemetics, premedications, etc.), infusion times, diluents, volumes and routes of administration, if included, are listed as defaults. They may vary between institutions and can be substituted to reflect individual institutional policy.

Antiemetics if included in the treatment schedule are based upon recommendations from national and international guidelines. These are defaults only and may be substituted to reflect individual institutional policy. Select here for recommended doses of alternative antiemetics.

Cycle 1 and 2

Day 1
Netupitant 300 mg (PO)

60 minutes before chemotherapy (fixed dose preparation with palonosetron) 
Palonosetron 0.5 mg (PO)

60 minutes before chemotherapy (fixed dose preparation with netupitant)
Dexamethasone 40 mg (PO) ONCE a day orally in the morning with food
Gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 (IV infusion) in 100 mL to 500 mL sodium chloride 0.9% over 30 minutes
ciSplatin 75 mg/m2 (IV infusion) in 500 mL sodium chloride 0.9% over 60 minutes
Day 2 to 4
Dexamethasone 40 mg (PO) ONCE a day orally in the morning with food
Day 8
Metoclopramide 10 mg (PO)

one tablet when necessary (maximum of 30 mg/24 hours, up to 5 days)
Gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 (IV infusion) in 100 mL to 500 mL sodium chloride 0.9% over 30 minutes

* Please note the dilution and hydration associated with cisplatin in this protocol has been based on regimens used in the NCIC-CTG LY.12r trial and differs from the standard cisplatin hydration used on eviQ.

Frequency:
21 days 
Cycles:
2 to 3, responding patients may be considered for high dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplant otherwise, continue up to a total of 6 cycles, unless disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.

Indications:

  • Relapsed or refractory Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphoma
  • First line chemotherapy for stage I-II nasal type extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma following radiation therapy or concurrent radiochemotherapy
  • Second line salvage chemotherapy followed by high dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplant

Cautions/exclusions:

  • Pre existing neuropathies greater than Grade 2
  • Moderate/severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 60 mL/min)
  • Significant hearing impairment/tinnitus
Venous access required

IV cannula (IVC) or central venous access device (CVAD) is required to administer this treatment.

Read more about central venous access device line selection
Emetogenicity HIGH

Suggested default antiemetics have been added to the treatment schedule, and may be substituted to reflect institutional policy.

As a steroid has been included as part of this protocol, additional antiemetic steroids are not required.

Ensure that patients also have sufficient antiemetics for breakthrough emesis:

Metoclopramide 10 mg three times a day when necessary (maximum of 30 mg/24 hours, up to 5 days) OR

Prochlorperazine 10 mg PO every 6 hours when necessary.

Read more about preventing anti-cancer therapy induced nausea and vomiting
Pulmonary toxicity

Dyspnoea developing within hours of the infusion has been reported in about 10% of patients treated with gemcitabine.

Read more about pulmonary toxicity associated with anti-cancer drugs.
Hydration

Hydration helps to prevent cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.

The default regimen is appropriate for patients with normal electrolytes, renal function, fluid status etc. and should be adjusted according to individual requirements.

Read more about cisplatin hydration regimens
Ototoxicity

Ototoxicity may occur with platinum-based therapy; patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms. Platinum compounds should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing conditions or risk factors.

Ototoxicity may become more severe in patients being treated with other drugs with nephrotoxic potential e.g. aminoglycosides.

An audiometry test should be performed if symptoms develop.

Read more about ototoxicity - tinnitus and hearing loss
Peripheral neuropathy

Assess prior to each treatment. If a patient experiences grade 2 or greater peripheral neuropathy, a dose reduction, delay, or omission of treatment may be required; review by medical officer before commencing treatment.

Read more about peripheral neuropathy

Link to chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy screening tool
Corticosteroids

Diabetic patients should monitor their blood glucose levels closely. To minimise gastric irritation, advise patient to take immediately after food. Consider the use of a H2 antagonist or proton pump inhibitor if appropriate.

Read more about acute short term effects from corticosteroids
Central nervous system (CNS) prophylaxis

Consider CNS relapse assessment in patients with high grade lymphoma. 

Read more about CNS prophylaxis in diffuse large cell lymphoma
Tumour lysis risk

Patients are at high risk of developing tumour lysis syndrome, prophylaxis is recommended.

Read more about the prevention and management of tumour lysis syndrome.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) prophylaxis

PJP prophylaxis is recommended e.g. trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole 160/800 mg PO one tablet twice daily, twice weekly (e.g. on Mondays and Thursdays) OR one tablet three times weekly (e.g. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays).

Read more about prophylaxis of pneumocystis jiroveci (carinii) in cancer patients
Antiviral prophylaxis

­

Read more about antiviral prophylaxis drugs and doses
Antifungal prophylaxis

Antifungal prophylaxis is recommended.

Read more about antifungal prophylaxis drugs and doses.
Growth factor support

G-CSF (short or long-acting) is available on the PBS for chemotherapy induced neutropenia depending on clinical indication and/or febrile neutropenia risk.  

Access the PBS website
Blood tests

FBC, EUC, LFTs, calcium and magnesium at baseline and prior to each cycle.
Repeat FBC prior to treatment on day 8 of each cycle.
Hepatitis B screening and prophylaxis

Routine screening for HBsAg and anti-HBc is recommended prior to initiation of treatment. Prophylaxis should be determined according to individual institutional policy.

Read more about hepatitis B screening and prophylaxis in cancer patients requiring cytotoxic and/or immunosuppressive therapy
Vaccinations

Live vaccines are contraindicated in cancer patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy and/or who have poorly controlled malignant disease.

Refer to the recommended schedule of vaccination for immunocompromised patients, as outlined in the Australian Immunisation Handbook.

Read more about COVID-19 vaccines and cancer.
Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Cancer treatment can have harmful effects on fertility and this should be discussed with all patients of reproductive potential prior to commencing treatment. There is a risk of foetal harm in pregnant women. A pregnancy test should be considered prior to initiating treatment in females of reproductive potential if sexually active. It is important that all patients of reproductive potential use effective contraception whilst on therapy and after treatment finishes. Effective contraception methods and adequate contraception timeframe should be discussed with all patients of reproductive potential. Possibility of infant risk should be discussed with breastfeeding patients.

Read more about the effect of cancer treatment on fertility
Evidence for dose modifications is limited, and the recommendations made on eviQ are intended as a guide only. They are generally conservative with an emphasis on safety. Any dose modification should be based on clinical judgement, and the individual patient’s situation including but not limited to treatment intent (curative vs palliative), the anti-cancer regimen (single versus combination therapy versus chemotherapy versus immunotherapy), biology of the cancer (site, size, mutations, metastases), other treatment related side effects, additional co-morbidities, performance status and patient preferences.Suggested dose modifications are based on clinical trial findings, product information, published guidelines and reference committee consensus . The dose reduction applies to each individual dose and not to the total number of days or duration of treatment cycle unless stated otherwise. Non-haematological gradings are based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) unless otherwise specified. Renal and hepatic dose modifications have been standardised where possible. For more information see dosing considerations & disclaimer.
The dose recommendations in kidney dysfunction (i.e.renal impairment) displayed may not reflect those in the ADDIKD guideline and have been included for historical reference only. Recommendations will be updated once the individual protocol has been evaluated by the reference committee, with this version of the protocol then being archived. Clinicians are expected to refer to the ADDIKD guideline prior to prescribing in kidney dysfunction.
International Consensus Guideline for Anticancer Drug Dosing in Kidney Dysfunction (ADDIKD).

Note:

  • All dose reductions are calculated as a percentage of the starting dose.
  • Dose modification recommendations in this protocol are based on the 2014 trial by Crump et al.r
Haematological toxicity
DAY 1: ANC x 109/L (pre-treatment blood test)
less than 1.0

Delay treatment for 1 week*

If after 1 week:

  • ANC < 1.0 but ≥ 0.5, consider giving treatment and initiate G-CSF**
  • ANC < 0.5, delay treatment until ANC ≥ 0.5
DAY 8: ANC x 109/L (pre-treatment blood test)
Less than 1.0 and greater or equal to 0.5 Consider giving treatment and initiate G-CSF** OR reduce gemcitabine by 25%
Less than 0.5 Omit gemcitabine this cycle and initiate G-CSF**
Day 1: Platelets x 109/L  (pre-treatment blood test)
Less than 75

Delay treatment for 1 week.*

If after 1 week:

  • platelets < 75 but ≥ 50, consider giving treatment with platelet transfusions as necessary
  • platelets <50, delay treatment until platelets ≥ 50
Day 8: Platelets x 109/L  (pre-treatment blood test)
Less than 75 and greater or equal to 50 Reduce gemcitabine by 25% from this cycle’s day 1 dose
Less than 50 Omit gemcitabine

*If counts presume to be low due to marrow involvement, treat after 1 week delay (i.e. at 4 weeks or day 28) despite counts

** G-CSF should be given prophylactically for all future cycles

Non-haematological toxicity
Grade 2† No dose reduction required
Grade 3†† Reduce gemcitabine and cisplatin by 25%
Grade 4 Delay treatment until recovery and consider resuming at a reduced dose at the clinician’s discretion.

† Except grade 2 pneumonitis thought to be secondary to gemcitabine, discontinue gemcitabine permanently.

†† In the event of grade 3 tinnitus, reduce cisplatin dose only

Renal impairment
Serum Creatinine#
Greater than 1.5 to 3.0 x ULN Reduce cisplatin by 25%
Greater than 3.0 x ULN Delay treatment by 1 week until recovery

#The renal impairment dose modifications are different from the eviQ standard and are based on the 2014 trial by Crump et al.r

Note: It is the consensus of the eviQ reference committee that cisplatin may be substituted with carboplatin (5 AUC) in patients with renal impairment. If estimated GFR is greater than 125 mL/min (i.e. 5 AUC dose greater than 750 mg), obtaining direct measurement rather than an estimated renal function and/or dose capping is strongly recommended. 

Hepatic impairment
Bilirubin
Greater than 1.5 to 3.0 x ULN Reduce gemcitabine by 25%
Greater than 3.0 x ULN

Day 1: Delay treatment by 1 week until recovery
Day 8: Omit gemcitabine until recovery, and resume at a reduced dose for subsequent cycles 
Cease treatment if any one of the following develops:
  • Pulmonary toxicity
  • Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA)/haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS)
  • Grade 4 non-haematologic toxicities
  • Elevations of serum creatinine levels greater than 200 mmol/L

Drug interactions in eviQ protocols are under review and being updated to align with current literature. Further site-wide updates and changes will occur in due course. References & Disclaimer

The drug interactions shown below are not an exhaustive list. For a more comprehensive list and for detailed information on specific drug interactions and clinical management, please refer to the specific drug product information and the following key resources:  

Cisplatin
  Interaction Clinical management
Nephrotoxic drugs (e.g. aminoglycosides, amphotericin, cisplatin, contrast dye, frusemide, NSAIDs) Additive nephrotoxicity Avoid combination or monitor renal function closely
Ototoxic drugs (e.g. aminoglycosides, frusemide, NSAIDs) Additive ototoxicity Avoid combination or perform regular audiometric testing
Neurotoxic drugs (e.g. vincristine, paclitaxel) Additive neurotoxicity Monitor closely for neuropathy if combination used
Paclitaxel Administration schedule may influence the development of myelosuppression Minimise toxicity by administering paclitaxel first in regimens using the combination
Carbamazepine, phenytoin, valproate Decreased antiepileptic plasma levels Monitor antiepileptic serum levels and seizure frequency for efficacy; adjust dosage as appropriate or select alternative antiepileptic (e.g. clonazepam, diazepam, lorazepam)
Gemcitabine
  Interaction Clinical management

Warfarin		 Increased anticoagulant effect/increased bleeding risk due to decreased hepatic metabolism of warfarin and decreased synthesis of clotting factors Monitor INR regularly and adjust warfarin dosage as appropriate
Dexamethasone
  Interaction Clinical management
CYP3A4 interactions Dexamethasone is a substrate of CYP3A4 and a weak to moderate inducer of CYP3A4. The clinical relevance of CYP3A4 induction by dexamethasone is unknown as the mechanism has yet to be established The effects of the concomitant use of dexamethasone with other CYP3A4 inducers, inhibitors or substrates is variable. If used concomitantly, monitor patients closely for adverse drug reactions
Warfarin Concurrent use may result in increased risk of bleeding or diminished effects of warfarin Monitor prothrombin time / INR (especially during initiation or discontinuation) and for signs of drug toxicity during concomitant use; adjust warfarin dose as required
Oral hypoglycaemics Corticosteroids may cause hyperglycaemia and worsen diabetes control Monitor blood glucose levels and adjust oral hypoglycaemic dose as required
NK-1 antagonist e.g. aprepitant, fosaprepitant, netupitant
  Interaction Clinical management
Dexamethasone Increased effects/toxicity of dexamethasone due to inhibition of its metabolism via CYP3A4

Reduce dose of antiemetic dexamethasone by approximately 50% when adding a NK-1 antagonist. For protocols that already recommend a NK-1 antagonist, the dose reduction of antiemetic dexamethasone has already been taken into account.

If dexamethasone is part of the chemotherapy protocol, dose reduction as per the product information is not routinely recommended in clinical practice and no additional dexamethasone is required for antiemetic cover. 
Warfarin

Reduced anticoagulant efficacy of warfarin due to increased clearance (aprepitant induces CYP2C9). *Note interaction only applicable to aprepitant/ fosaprepitant

INR should be monitored in the 2 week period, particularly at 7 to 10 days following the administration of aprepitant/ fosaprepitant
Combined oral contraceptive Reduced contraceptive efficacy due to increased clearance. *Note interaction only applicable to aprepitant/ fosaprepitant Alternative non-hormonal methods should be used during and for 1 month after stopping aprepitant/ fosaprepitant
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g. carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbitone, rifampicin, St John’s wort etc.) Reduced efficacy of NK-1 antagonist possible due to increased clearance Avoid combination or monitor for decreased antiemetic effect. Consider using an alternative antiemetic regimen
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g. azole antifungals, clarithromycin, erythromycin, grapefruit juice, ritonavir etc.) Increased toxicity of NK-1 antagonist possible due to reduced clearance Avoid combination or monitor for increased adverse effects of NK-1 antagonist (e.g. headache, hiccups, constipation)
Drugs metabolised by CYP3A4 (e.g. etoposide, imatinib, irinotecan, midazolam, paclitaxel, vinblastine, vincristine etc.) Increased effects/toxicity of these drugs possible due to inhibition of CYP3A4 by NK-1 antagonist Avoid combination or monitor for increased toxicity especially with orally administered drugs
General
  Interaction Clinical management
Warfarin Anti-cancer drugs may alter the anticoagulant effect of warfarin. Monitor INR regularly and adjust warfarin dosage as appropriate; consider alternative anticoagulant.
Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) e.g. apixaban, rivaroxaban, dabigatran

Interaction with both CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors /inducers.

DOAC and anti-cancer drug levels may both be altered, possibly leading to loss of efficacy or toxicity (i.e. increased bleeding).

Apixaban: avoid concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 and P‑gp inhibitors. If treating VTE, avoid use with strong CYP3A4 and P‑gp inducers. 

Rivaroxaban: avoid concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 and P‑gp  inhibitors.

Dabigatran: avoid combination with strong P‑gp inducers and inhibitors.

If concurrent use is unavoidable, monitor closely for efficacy/toxicity of both drugs.
Digoxin Anti-cancer drugs can damage the lining of the intestine; affecting the absorption of digoxin. Monitor digoxin serum levels; adjust digoxin dosage as appropriate.
Antiepileptics Both altered antiepileptic and anti-cancer drug levels may occur, possibly leading to loss of efficacy or toxicity. Where concurrent use of an enzyme-inducing antiepileptic cannot be avoided, monitor antiepileptic serum levels for toxicity, as well as seizure frequency for efficacy; adjust dosage as appropriate.
Also monitor closely for efficacy of the anti-cancer therapy.
Antiplatelet agents and NSAIDs Increased risk of bleeding due to treatment related thrombocytopenia. Avoid or minimise combination.
If combination deemed essential, (e.g. low dose aspirin for ischaemic heart disease) monitor for signs of bleeding.
Serotonergic drugs, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs e.g. paroxetine) and serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs e.g. venlafaxine) Increased risk of serotonin syndrome with concurrent use of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists (e.g. palonosetron, ondansetron, granisetron, tropisetron, dolasetron, etc.) Avoid combination.
If combination is clinically warranted, monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome (e.g. confusion, agitation, tachycardia, hyperreflexia).
For more information link to TGA Medicines Safety Update
Vaccines Diminished response to vaccines and increased risk of infection with live vaccines. Live vaccines (e.g. BCG, MMR, zoster and varicella) are contraindicated in patients on immunosuppressive therapy. Use with caution in patients on non-immunosuppressive therapy.
For more information; refer to the recommended schedule of vaccination for cancer patients, as outlined in the Australian Immunisation Handbook

eviQ provides safe and effective instructions on how to administer cancer treatments. However, eviQ does not provide every treatment delivery option, and is unable to provide a comprehensive list of cancer treatment agents and their required IV line giving set/filter. There may be alternative methods of treatment administration, and alternative supportive treatments that are also appropriate. Please refer to the individual product information monographs via the TGA website for further information.

Day 1

Approximate treatment time: 5 hours

General patient assessment prior to each day of treatment.

Peripheral neuropathy assessment tool

Any toxicity grade 2 or greater may require dose reduction, delay or omission of treatment and review by medical officer before commencing treatment.

Prime IV line(s).

Insert IV cannula or access TIVAD or CVAD.

  • baseline weight

Pre treatment medication

Verify antiemetics taken or administer as prescribed.

Dexamethasone

  • administer orally ONCE a day in the morning, on days 1 to 4
  • to be taken with or immediately after food.

Note: if a dose is forgotten or vomited, contact treating team.

Gemcitabine 

Administer gemcitabine (irritant):
  • via IV infusion over 30 minutes
    • if pain develops along the vein, verify the drug has not extravasated
    • further dilution (using a second saline line), warmth or temporarily slowing the infusion may help
  • flush with ~ 100 mL of sodium chloride 0.9% 
  • prolonged infusion times have been shown to increase toxicity.

Cisplatin

Commence prehydration for cisplatin:
  • administer 10 mmol magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) in 500 mL sodium chloride 0.9% over 60 minutes
  • followed by 200 mL of mannitol 20% over 15 minutes
    • mannitol should be administered via a controlled infusion
  • mannitol 10% may be used as per institutional policy; there is much variation in the use of mannitol and although there is no conclusive evidence that mannitol should be used, many sites have used it routinely without renal toxicity. The routine use of frusemide to increase urine flow is not recommended. Refer to your institutional guidelines and medical orders.
  • ensure patient has passed urine prior to cisplatin administration as per institutional policy.
Administer cisplatin (irritant):
  • via IV infusion over 60 minutes
  • flush with 100 mL of sodium chloride 0.9%.
Post hydration:
  • 500 mL sodium chloride 0.9% over 60 minutes.

Remove IV cannula and/or deaccess TIVAD or CVAD. 

Continue safe handling precautions until 7 days after completion of drug(s)

Day 8

Approximate treatment time: 60 minutes

General patient assessment prior to each day of treatment.

Peripheral neuropathy assessment tool

Any toxicity grade 2 or greater may require dose reduction, delay or omission of treatment and review by medical officer before commencing treatment.

Prime IV line(s).

Insert IV cannula or access TIVAD or CVAD.

Pre treatment medication

Verify antiemetics taken or administer as prescribed.

Gemcitabine 

Administer gemcitabine (irritant):
  • via IV infusion over 30 minutes
    • if pain develops along the vein, verify the drug has not extravasated
    • further dilution (using a second saline line), warmth or temporarily slowing the infusion may help
  • flush with ~ 100 mL of sodium chloride 0.9% 
  • prolonged infusion times have been shown to increase toxicity.

Remove IV cannula and/or deaccess TIVAD or CVAD. 

Continue safe handling precautions until 7 days after completion of drug(s)

Discharge information

Dexamethasone tablets
  • Dexamethasone tablets with written instructions on how to take them.
Antiemetics
  • Antiemetics as prescribed.
Growth factor support
  • Arrangements for administration if prescribed.
Prophylaxis medications
  • Prophylaxis medications (if prescribed) i.e. tumour lysis prophylaxis, PJP prophylaxis, antifungals, antivirals.
Patient information
  • Ensure patient receives patient information sheet.

The side effects listed below are not a complete list of all possible side effects for this treatment. Side effects are categorised into the approximate onset of presentation and should only be used as a guide.

Immediate (onset hours to days)
Nausea and vomiting

Read more about prevention of treatment induced nausea and vomiting
Taste and smell alteration

Read more about taste and smell changes
Flu-like symptoms

Early (onset days to weeks)
Neutropenia

Abnormally low levels of neutrophils in the blood. This increases the risk of infection. Any fever or suspicion of infection should be investigated immediately and managed aggressively. 

Read more about immediate management of neutropenic fever
Thrombocytopenia

A reduction in the normal levels of functional platelets, increasing the risk of abnormal bleeding.  

Read more about thrombocytopenia
Anorexia

Loss of appetite accompanied by decreased food intake.

Read more about anorexia
Diarrhoea

Read more about treatment induced diarrhoea
Fatigue

Read more about fatigue
Fluid retention and oedema

An excess amount of fluid around the cells, tissues or serous cavities of the body, leading to swelling.
Hepatotoxicity

Anti-cancer drugs administered either alone or in combination with other drugs and/or radiation may cause direct or indirect hepatotoxicity. Hepatic dysfunction can alter the metabolism of some drugs resulting in systemic toxicity.
Hypomagnesaemia, hypokalaemia, hypocalcaemia

Abnormally low levels of magnesium, potassium and calcium in the blood.
Nephrotoxicity

Renal dysfunction resulting from damage to the glomeruli, tubules or renal vasculature.
Oral mucositis

Erythematous and ulcerative lesions of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT). It commonly develops following chemotherapy, radiation therapy to the head, neck or oesophagus, and high dose chemotherapy followed by a blood and marrow transplant (BMT).

Read more about oral mucositis
Ototoxicity

Tinnitus and hearing loss may occur due to damage in the inner ear. Tinnitus is usually reversible, while hearing loss is generally irreversible. Hearing loss is dose-related, cumulative and may be worse in those with pre-existing hearing problems.

Read more about ototoxicity - tinnitus and hearing loss
Peripheral neuropathy

Typically symmetrical sensory neuropathy, affecting the fingers and toes, sometimes progressing to the hands and feet.  It is associated with several classes of anti-cancer drugs. These include taxanes, platinum-based compounds, vinca alkaloids and some drugs used to treat multiple myeloma.

Read more about peripheral neuropathy
Pulmonary toxicity

Pulmonary toxicity may include damage to the lungs, airways, pleura and pulmonary circulation. 

Read more about pulmonary toxicity associated with anti-cancer drugs
Side effects of corticosteroids

Insomnia, oedema, increased risk of infection e.g. oral thrush, gastric irritation, worsening of peptic ulcer disease, increased blood sugar levels, loss of diabetic control, mood and behavioural changes - including anxiety, euphoria, depression, mood swings, increased appetite and weight gain, osteoporosis and fractures (long term use), bruising and skin fragility are associated with corticosteroid use.
Skin rash

Anti-cancer drugs can cause a number of changes in the skin with maculo-papular rash the most common type of drug-induced skin reaction. 

Read more about skin rash

Late (onset weeks to months)
Alopecia - partial

Hair thinning and/or patchy hair loss. Patients can also experience mild to moderate discomfort of the hair follicles, and rarely pain as the hair is falling out.

Read more about alopecia
Anaemia

Abnormally low levels of red blood cells (RBCs) or haemoglobin in the blood. 

Read more about anaemia
Haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS)

A rare but serious acute syndrome characterised by haemolysis of red blood cells and renal failure.

Read more about haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS)

Gemcitabine is a cytarabine analogue which has synergistic activity with cisplatin in vitro. These two agents, along with the dexamethasone dose used in DHAP were combined with intent to develop an efficacious outpatient regimen that does not adversely impact stem cell mobilisation capacity.r

Hodgkin lymphoma (HL)

In a Canadian study of relapsed/refractory Hodgkin lymphoma (R/R HL), 131 patients were treated with GDP (27% relapsed less than 12 months after upfront therapy; 33% relapsed greater than 12 months after upfront therapy; 40% primary refractory disease).r After 2 cycles, 15% achieved complete response (CR) and 61% achieved partial response (PR) (overall response rate 76%). These patients were each able to mobilise adequate stem cells to proceed to BEAM autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT), the standard ultimate goal in R/R HL.r In a smaller preceding analysis of 34 patients receiving GDP, there were response rates of 3/34 in CR (9%), 18/34 in PR (53%) and 9/34 (26%) with stable disease (30/34 in total with non-progressive disease).r These patients were all able to proceed to BEAM ASCT, with overall survival (OS) at 1.5 years of 90% and progression-free survival (PFS) at 1.2 years of 76%. Baetz and colleagues reported comparable findings in 23 patients with R/R HL.r

Ramzi et al published a small, randomized study comparing GDP and ESHAP as salvage chemotherapy for R/R HL.r Twenty-two patients were recruited to each arm. Overall response rates (ORR) were 54.1% in the GDP group and 50.0% in the ESHAP group, with CR identical in the two groups (38.1%).

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL)

In a Canadian phase 2 study, 51 patients with aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma (40 DLBCL) were treated with 2 cycles of GDP.r Response rates were 8/51 in CR (16%) and 17/51 in PR (33%), with an ORR of 49%. 22 of the 23 patients who were eligible to proceed to ASCT were able to mobilise a target CD34 dose of 2 x 106/kg, indicating that capacity for stem cell mobilisation was not substantially impaired by this regimen. 

The NCIC-CTG LY.12. study randomized patients with relapsed and refractory aggressive lymphomas to receive either GDP or DHAP, followed by ASCT.r In this study, Crump and colleagues studied 619 patients, with several aggressive histological entities included - DLBCL (n=419), transformed indolent (n=87), PTCL (n=27), ALCL (n=23), and primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (n=18). An amendment in 2005 allowed patients with CD20+ diseases to receive rituximab in addition to the chemotherapy backbone. The patients were poor-risk with approximately 70% in each arm experiencing relapse within 1 year of primary therapy or having no response to primary therapy. At least 2 cycles of therapy were administered to 90% of the GDP group and 87% of the DHAP group. The rates of response were similar in the two groups (45.1% v 44.1%), meeting the prespecified criteria for non-inferiority. 52.1% of the GDP arm and 49.3% of the DHAP group proceeded to subsequent stem cell transplantation. 6 patients in the GDP arm and 7 patients in the DHAP arm failed to collect stem cells sufficient for subsequent transplantation. After a median follow-up of 53 months, the 4 year PFS and OS were similar.

Progression free survival  and overall survival in the NCIC-CTG LY.12 study

© Journal of Clinical Oncology 2014

Aggressive lymphoma

The British Columbia group recently published a retrospective analysis of patients treated with GDP between Sep 2002 and Jun 2010.r In the paper by Moccia and colleagues, 152 patients with DLBCL and 83 patients with HL were identified. Overall response rates in these two groups were 49% and 71% respectively, with 52% and 96% of patients respectively proceeding to transplant (in those patients eligible for transplantation). The 2 year PFS and OS were 21% and 28% in the DLBCL group respectively, and 58% and 85% in the HL group respectively.

Peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL)

Several small studies have evaluated GDP specifically in the setting of PTCL. Jia et al evaluated the role of 3 different front-line protocols.r In this retrospective study, 93 patients were treated with CHOP (n=40), CHOPE (n=42), and GDP (n=11). GDP appeared to have similar CR rates to CHOPE, and ORR of 90.9%. Median PFS was 9.7 months in the GDP arm, with a 100% OS at 1 year which was significantly higher than the CHOP-treated group (p=0.024).

In the relapsed setting, Park et al demonstrated a 72% ORR after a median of 4 cycles, with 12 of 25 patients studied achieving a complete response to GDP.r In this study, cisplatin was administered at a lower dose of 70mg/m2.  At a median follow-up of 27.1 months, median PFS was 9.3 months. Qi et al published the Chinese experience of GDP in 25 patients treated with a median on 4 cycles.r An ORR of 64.0% was demonstrated, with 5 patients achieving a complete response. After a median follow-up of 9 months, median OS and PFS were 9.3 and 5.4 months respectively.

Phase 2 studies in stage I-II nasal type extranodal NK/T-cell lymphoma deliver 3-4 cycles of GDP following radiation therapy or concurrent radiation therapy and cisplatin.rr  In the study by Qi et al. the cisplatin dose was divided and given daily on days 1 to 3. CR rates (90-95%) and 3-year PFS 84% and OS 87% are comparable to similar sized phase 2 studies of other regimens including concurrent chemoradiation therapy followed by VIPD, concurrent DeVIC and radiation therapy, and GELOX followed by radiation therapy.

Rituximab

Note that rituximab is routinely incorporated into salvage regimens for B-cell lymphomas. This is based on randomised evidence in follicular lymphoma and more limited evidence in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.rr Rituximab was included as a protocol amendment in the Crump 2012 abstract in each arm, 318 patients received rituximab in combination with GDP, 96 did not.r The rituximab group had better ORR (46% vs 25%) and higher transplant rates (52% vs 31%), however there was no difference in PFS and OS between groups.  Where patients who relapse within 1 year of primary therapy were excluded, the inclusion of rituximab at salvage significantly improved OS with a trend towards improved PFS.  These data support the use of R+GDP in relapsed B-cell NHL.

Source Study & Year Published Is the dose and regimen consistent with the protocol?
Phase III trials Crump et al. 2014r Yes
Phase II trials

Baetz et al. 2003r
Villa et al. 2012r
Kuruvilla et al. 2006r
Ke et al. 2014r

 Yes
Park et al. 2015r
Qi et al. 2018r		 Cisplatin 70 mg/m2
Cisplatin 25mg/m2 D1-D3
Case series

Moccia et al. 2017r
Qi et al. 2017r
Jia et al. 2016r

 Yes

Toxicity

The paper by Crump et al demonstrated that grade 3 or 4 adverse events were observed significantly less frequently during the first two cycles of chemotherapy among patients receiving GDP (47% v 61%; P < .001), including fewer episodes of febrile neutropenia (9% v 23%; P < .001).r Furthermore, hospitalisations were less frequent in the GDP group (47% v 99%, P<0.001).

© Journal of Clinical Oncology 2014

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Version 5

Date Summary of changes
13/09/2019 Reviewed at Lymphoma Reference Committee Meeting. Dilution and pre and post hydration of cisplatin reduced to 500mL each. First line indication added. Evidence updated. Version number changed to V.5. Review in 2 years.
10/10/2019 Clinical information updated with PBS expanded indications for G-CSF. 
22/10/2021 Electronically reviewed by the Haematology reference committee. For review in 4 years.
20/01/2022 Interactions updated.

Version 4

Date Summary of changes
07/03/2014 New protocol taken to reference committee meeting.
06/05/2014 Approved and Published on eviQ.
18/08/2014 Added link to ALLG, ANZCTR and Lymphoma Australia website with statement 'Patients with lymphoma should be considered for inclusion into clinical trials'.
11/09/2015 Reviewed at RCM, no changes, review in 2 years, updated drug costs.

31/05/2017

Transferred to new eviQ website. Version number changed to V.3.

Antiemetic change: Netupitant/palonosetron combination has replaced aprepitant and a 5HT3 receptor antagonist in combination with dexamethasone for all highly emetogenic regimens.
04/12/2017 Renal dose modification for cisplatin aligned with the standard eviQ cisplatin dose modification as per the Nephrotoxicity associated with cisplatin document.
25/05/2018 Reviewed at Lymphoma + CLL reference committee meeting, evidence updated. Dose modification recommendations based on trial by Crump et al, 2014. Version number changed to V.4. 

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31 Mar 2023