DCA for Glioblastoma
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
You can keep taking your current medications, except if you need insulin or sulfonylurea for diabetes. If you use these, you cannot join the trial.
What data supports the effectiveness of the drug DCA for treating glioblastoma?
Research shows that DCA can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and has potential antitumor effects on brain tumors, including gliomas, by inhibiting cell growth and inducing cell death. Additionally, DCA has shown effectiveness in stabilizing other types of cancer, such as melanoma, suggesting it may help manage tumor growth.12345
Is DCA generally safe for humans?
DCA has been studied for safety in humans, showing some dose-related, reversible side effects like nerve damage (neurotoxicity) when taken orally. However, high-dose intravenous DCA has been confirmed as safe in both healthy and critically ill patients, with no systemic toxic effects observed in animal studies.12467
What makes the drug DCA unique for treating glioblastoma?
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests if DCA, a medication taken by mouth, can help treat patients with returning brain tumors who are scheduled for surgery. DCA may change how tumor cells use energy, potentially slowing their growth. DCA has shown potential activity against several human cancers, including brain tumors.
Research Team
Peter Stacpoole, PhD, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Florida
Eligibility Criteria
Adults aged 18-80 with recurrent Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) who have already undergone surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy with temozolomide are eligible. They must not be pre-terminal or pregnant, nor can they have severe liver insufficiency, end-stage renal failure, or be on insulin/sulfonylurea therapy for diabetes.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-Surgical Treatment
Participants receive DCA or no DCA for one week prior to surgery
Surgery
Participants undergo clinically indicated debulking surgery
Post-Surgical Treatment
Participants start DCA 12-24 hours postoperatively, depending on their ability to safely receive medication
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Dichloroacetate (DCA)
Dichloroacetate (DCA) is already approved in Canada for the following indications:
- Topical treatment of warts
- Cauterization and removal of skin and tissue lesions
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Florida
Lead Sponsor
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Collaborator