ZD 0473 shows activity in various treatment-refractory solid tumours both as monotherapy and in combination with other antineoplastics, according to data from phase I and II studies presented at ECCO 11 - the European Cancer Conference [Lisbon, Portugal; October 2001]. ZD 0473 is a new generation platinum compound which was designed with the intention of overcoming resistance to existing platinum-based antineoplastics. While it is not yet clear whether this objective has been achieved, clinical studies suggest ZD 0473 may be better tolerated than older platinum compounds, with no evidence of neurotoxicity or nephrotoxicity associated with the newer agent to date.