It has not been clearly determined whether the addition of ifosfamide to standard regimens is necessary. In order to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of ifosfamide for SCLC, we systematically searched all available published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing IEP and EP in SCLC. The aim of this meta‑analysis was to synthesize all evidence originating from direct comparisons and assess the efficacy and tolerability of the two regimens used as standard first‑line treatment for previously untreated SCLC.