Olaparib + Temozolomide for Leiomyosarcoma
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a combination of two drugs, olaparib and temozolomide, to treat uterine leiomyosarcoma, a cancer that begins in the muscle tissue of the uterus and can spread to other body parts. Olaparib blocks proteins that help cancer cells repair themselves, while temozolomide is a chemotherapy drug that stops cancer cells from growing. The trial aims to determine if using these two drugs together is more effective than using them alone. Suitable participants have advanced uterine leiomyosarcoma that has spread or cannot be surgically removed and have previously tried at least one other treatment without success. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, you must avoid certain medications that interact with the trial drugs, such as strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitors and inducers, with a washout period (time without taking these medications) of 2 to 5 weeks before starting the trial.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research is exploring the use of a combination of two drugs, olaparib and temozolomide, to treat advanced uterine leiomyosarcoma. In earlier studies, patients have shown varied reactions to this treatment. Some experienced common side effects like nausea and tiredness, which are usually manageable. However, more serious side effects, such as low blood counts, were also reported, increasing the risk of infections or bleeding.
While these side effects might seem concerning, the research aims to determine if the combined use of these drugs offers more benefits than risks. Olaparib is already approved for other conditions, indicating its safety is well understood when used alone. Temozolomide has also been used in other treatments, providing some knowledge about its effects. This ongoing research seeks to ensure that the benefits of using these drugs together outweigh the risks for people with advanced uterine leiomyosarcoma.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about olaparib and temozolomide for leiomyosarcoma because they bring a fresh approach to treatment. Unlike traditional chemotherapy options like doxorubicin, which broadly targets fast-growing cells, olaparib specifically inhibits a protein involved in DNA repair, potentially making cancer cells more susceptible to damage. When combined with temozolomide, a drug that adds additional DNA damage, this duo could enhance the effectiveness of the treatment by hitting the cancer from two angles. This unique mechanism of action offers hope for better outcomes in a condition with limited effective options.
What evidence suggests that this treatment might be an effective treatment for leiomyosarcoma?
Research has shown that using olaparib and temozolomide together may help treat advanced uterine leiomyosarcoma, a cancer affecting the smooth muscle of the uterus. In earlier studies, this drug combination slowed or shrank tumors in 27% of patients, meaning their tumors either got smaller or stopped growing. However, in some cases, this treatment was not more effective than other options like pazopanib or trabectedin. This combination works by making it harder for cancer cells to repair themselves, which helps stop the cancer from growing. Participants in this trial will receive the combination of olaparib and temozolomide to evaluate its effectiveness and safety in treating leiomyosarcoma.12346
Who Is on the Research Team?
Brian Van Tine
Principal Investigator
Yale University Cancer Center LAO
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults with advanced uterine leiomyosarcoma that's spread or can't be surgically removed, who've had prior treatment failure or intolerance. Must be able to swallow pills, have adequate organ function, use effective contraception if needed, and agree to study procedures.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive olaparib and temozolomide orally on days 1-7 of each 21-day cycle
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Olaparib
- Temozolomide
Olaparib is already approved in European Union, United States for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Lead Sponsor