Cediranib: Profile of a novel anti-angiogenic agent in patients with glioblastoma

Background: Treatment strategies targeting angiogenesis have revealed promising results in preclinical studies and early clinical trials in patients with glioblastomas. Objective: This review evaluates the preclinical and clinical data for cediranib (AZD2171), a potent oral inhibitor of the VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase. Methods: We summarize both preclinical and clinical data for cediranib, with a focus on the treatment of glioblastomas. Results/conclusion: Cediranib is an effective drug in patients with glioblastoma, acting through inhibition of angiogenesis and normalization of tumor vasculature. Reduction of vasogenic brain edema is a key component of its treatment effect in this patient population. The primary side effects of cediranib include fatigue, diarrhea and hypertension.