Comparison of weekly docetaxel regimens in prostate cancer: a systematic review and frequentist network meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Docetaxel is a cornerstone chemotherapy for metastatic hormone-sensitive and castration-resistant prostate cancer. Although the standard triweekly regimen is widely used, weekly and biweekly schedules are often employed to improve tolerability, particularly in elderly or frail patients. The comparative efficacy and safety of these dosing strategies remain unclear. This study aimed to systematically compare weekly, biweekly, and triweekly docetaxel regimens using a network meta-analysis.

Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from inception to February 2025. Randomized controlled trials and observational retrospective studies comparing weekly, biweekly, and triweekly docetaxel regimens were included. Outcomes assessed were prostate-specific antigen (PSA) response rate, time to treatment failure or progression, and adverse events. A frequentist random-effects network meta-analysis was conducted using R software.

Results: Eleven studies involving 1,238 patients were included. PSA response rates did not differ significantly among regimens; triweekly docetaxel showed a numerically lower response compared with weekly dosing (RR = 0.79, 95% CI 0.52–1.22;I² = 41.1%). Time to treatment failure was significantly longer with triweekly dosing compared with weekly dosing (mean difference = 10.91 months, 95% CI 6.94–14.87;I² = 96.8%). Biweekly and triweekly regimens were associated with significantly higher hepatotoxicity compared with weekly dosing (RR = 3.71 and RR = 3.21, respectively; I² = 0%). Vomiting was more frequent with triweekly docetaxel (RR = 2.47, 95% CI 1.31–4.63). No significant differences were observed for overall adverse events, hematologic toxicity, neuropathy, fatigue, febrile neutropenia, nausea, anorexia, or diarrhea.

Discussion: Docetaxel dosing schedules show comparable PSA response rates. Triweekly dosing prolongs time to treatment failure but is associated with greater toxicity, whereas weekly dosing offers better tolerability. Treatment decisions should balance efficacy and safety based on individual patient characteristics.

Keywords

docetaxel / prostate cancer / network meta-analysis / dosing

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