ZD-0473 (formerly JM-473 and AMD-473) is a sterically hindered platinum (II) complex designed and synthesized by Johnson Matthey Technology and the Cancer Research Campaign (CRC) and under development as a potential treatment for cisplatin-resistant cancer. AstraZeneca is developing both an i.v. and an oral formulation of ZD-0473. In December 1999 the i.v. formulation entered phase II clinical trials for the potential treatment of solid tumors; the oral formulation is undergoing preclinical development [351298,349551]. AstraZeneca expects to file for registration of the drug in the fourth quarter of 2002 [377656]. Phase I clinical trials for the potential treatment of a range of solid tumors, including colorectal cancer were carried out jointly by AnorMED (a subsidiary of Johnson Matthey) and the CRC at the Royal Marsden Hospital, UK [301848,315489,337657]. AstraZeneca has licensed ZD-0473 from AnorMED and is responsible for the worldwide development of the drug beyond phase I trials [337540]. Phase I trials to determine the maximum tolerated dose in patients, the nature of the dose-limiting toxicity and the pharmacokinetics of the drug commenced in the US in November 1999 [347964]. In June 2000, Deutsche Bank predicted sales of US $15 million in 2003 [374500]. In March 1999, Lehman Brothers predicted a 15% probability that the drug would reach worldwide markets, and be launched onto the market in 2003 [336599].