We have evaluated the combination of ifosfamide, carboplatin and etoposide (ICE regimen) along with mesna in 26 previously untreated patients with non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Thirteen stage III B and 13 stage IV patients received intermediate doses of ifosfamide (1000 mg/m2), carboplatin (120 mg/m2) and etoposide (120 mg/m2) given intravenously on day 1 to 3 every 4 weeks. Except for one patient who experienced grade 3 transient thrombocytopenia no major events of hematological or systemic toxicity were observed. Response rate (27%, 95% C.I., 10 to 44%), median duration of response (9 months, range 6-15), and survival (9.5 months, range 2-44+) were comparable to those achieved with conventional cisplatin-containing regimens. Our ICE combination, as compared to standard or high dose schedules appears effective, safe, well tolerated, and devoid of severe hematological toxicity.