Itraconazole for Esophageal Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests if itraconazole, a drug for fungal infections, can help treat esophageal cancer. It targets patients with poor survival rates. The drug works by blocking growth signals in cancer cells. The trial will see if adding itraconazole after standard treatment improves outcomes. Itraconazole is an FDA-approved antifungal agent that has shown promising anticancer activities in recent years.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is Itraconazole safe for use in humans?
How does the drug itraconazole differ from other treatments for esophageal cancer?
Itraconazole, originally an antifungal drug, is unique in treating esophageal cancer by blocking the HER2/AKT signaling pathway, which is involved in cancer cell growth, and activating AMPK signaling, leading to cancer cell death. This dual action is different from traditional chemotherapy or surgery, offering a novel approach to targeting cancer cells.678910
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug itraconazole for esophageal cancer?
Research shows that itraconazole, a drug usually used to treat fungal infections, can slow down the growth of esophageal cancer cells by blocking certain proteins (HER2/AKT) that help cancer cells grow. It also activates a process (AMPK signaling) that leads to cancer cell death, which has been observed in both lab studies and early clinical trials.68111213
Who Is on the Research Team?
David Wang, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
North Texas Veterans Healthcare System
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with localized esophageal or gastroesophageal junction cancer. Participants must be able to consent, have normal heart rhythm (QTc ≤450ms), no severe heart failure history, liver function tests within three times the upper limit of normal, and not be pregnant or allergic to itraconazole.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation
Participants undergo 5-6 weeks of standard of care neoadjuvant chemoradiation
Itraconazole Treatment
Participants receive itraconazole 300 mg twice daily for 6-8 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including esophagectomy and analysis of tissue samples
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Itraconazole
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Dallas VA Medical Center
Lead Sponsor