Abstract: Objective To compare the efficacy and safety of docetaxel plus cisplatin and gemcitabine plus cisplatin in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods A total of 120 patients with advanced NSCLC were divided into two groups. The patients received docetaxel in docetaxel group. In gemcitabine group the patients received gemcitabine and cisplatin. The treatment schedule was repeated every 3 weeks. The toxicity,quality response and survival rate of life were evaluated after every cycle. Results The response rates of the docetaxel group and the gemcitabine group were 45% and 43.3%,respectively. One-year survival rates in the two groups were 45% and 43.3%,respectively. The response rate,one-year survival time showed no significance (P >0.05). The main side effects were myelosupp ression,nausea and vomiting. Conclusion Regimens of DC and GC are both safe and effective in the treatment of advanced stage NSCLC. They can be used as the first regimen of chemotherapy in patients with advanced stage NSCLC.