Chemotherapy for Advanced Breast Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial examines the effectiveness of the chemotherapy drug nab-paclitaxel in treating breast cancer that has spread to nearby tissues or other parts of the body. Researchers aim to understand the side effects of this drug in older patients with advanced cancer. This study suits individuals with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer considering nab-paclitaxel as a first or second treatment option. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop your current medications. However, you cannot be on any other investigational drugs or have received a taxane in the last 12 months.
Is there any evidence suggesting that nab-paclitaxel is likely to be safe for humans?
Research shows that nab-paclitaxel is generally safe for treating advanced breast cancer. Studies have found it effective and manageable, even for patients who have undergone previous treatments. Another review confirmed nab-paclitaxel's safety at different stages of breast cancer. However, like many chemotherapy drugs, it can cause side effects. Some patients might experience low blood cell counts or fatigue. Discuss any concerns with a doctor to understand how this might affect treatment.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Nab-paclitaxel is unique because it uses a special delivery system to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy for advanced breast cancer. Unlike traditional paclitaxel, which is often combined with solvents that can cause side effects, nab-paclitaxel is bound to albumin, a protein that helps it dissolve without solvents. This means it can potentially reduce side effects and improve drug delivery to the tumor. Researchers are excited because this approach could lead to better outcomes with fewer complications for patients.
What evidence suggests that nab-paclitaxel might be an effective treatment for advanced breast cancer?
Research has shown that nab-paclitaxel, the treatment under study in this trial, effectively treats advanced breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. In previous studies, patients receiving nab-paclitaxel achieved better results compared to those on other treatments. For instance, one study found that 42% of patients responded well to nab-paclitaxel, while only 29% responded well to another treatment. Another study highlighted that nab-paclitaxel generally has manageable side effects, making it a suitable option for many patients. Overall, nab-paclitaxel is considered a strong choice for those with advanced breast cancer.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Mina Sedrak
Principal Investigator
City of Hope Medical Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for older adults with breast cancer that has spread locally or to other body parts. Participants need a certain level of kidney function, blood cell counts, and liver health; they must understand the study and agree to participate. They should be relatively fit (KPS >= 70%) and not have had taxane drugs recently or severe nerve damage from past treatments.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive nab-paclitaxel intravenously over 30 minutes on days 1, 8, and 15. Cycles repeat every 28 days in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Nab-paclitaxel
Nab-paclitaxel is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:
- Metastatic breast cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Adenocarcinoma of the pancreas
- Metastatic breast cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Adenocarcinoma of the pancreas
- Metastatic breast cancer
- Non-small cell lung cancer
- Adenocarcinoma of the pancreas
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
City of Hope Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Collaborator