Selumetinib for Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of selumetinib sulfate (also known as AZD6244, MEK162, or Koselugo) in treating certain cancers that have spread, recurred, or resisted treatment. The focus is on cancers involving solid tumors, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, or histiocytic disorders with a specific gene mutation known as MAPK pathway activation. The treatment may halt cancer growth by blocking enzymes necessary for cell growth. Suitable candidates for this trial include patients with these cancers who have measurable disease and have not responded to other treatments. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
Yes, you may need to stop taking certain medications. The trial does not allow participants to take other anti-cancer agents, investigational drugs, or certain medications that affect specific liver enzymes (CYP3A4 and CYP2C19). If you are on corticosteroids, you must be on a stable or decreasing dose for at least 7 days before joining the trial.
Is there any evidence suggesting that selumetinib sulfate is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that selumetinib sulfate has been safe in past studies. In one study with 74 children and teens, participants took selumetinib for up to 7.7 years, and no new safety issues emerged. This suggests the treatment is well-tolerated.
Another study with adults found that selumetinib reduced tumor size and pain. While this primarily demonstrates the drug's effectiveness, it also suggests safety for ongoing use.
Overall, these studies indicate that selumetinib is generally safe for both children and adults. However, like any treatment, some side effects may occur. Always discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Selumetinib is unique because it targets a specific pathway in cancer cells known as the MEK pathway. While many standard cancer treatments, like chemotherapy, attack rapidly dividing cells in general, selumetinib specifically inhibits this pathway, which is often overactive in certain cancers. This targeted approach means selumetinib might offer a more personalized treatment option with potentially fewer side effects compared to traditional treatments. Researchers are excited about selumetinib because it represents a shift towards precision medicine, focusing on the molecular characteristics of cancer rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
What evidence suggests that selumetinib sulfate might be an effective treatment for cancer?
Research has shown that selumetinib, the treatment under study in this trial, can help shrink tumors in some cancer patients. One study found that 66% of patients experienced a reduction in tumor size by at least 20%. Evidence also indicates that selumetinib can slow tumor growth and extend the period during which the cancer does not worsen. This treatment blocks certain enzymes that cancer cells need to grow. These promising results suggest that selumetinib could effectively treat cancers with specific genetic mutations.12467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Carl E Allen
Principal Investigator
Children's Oncology Group
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for patients with advanced solid tumors, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, or histiocytic disorders that have MAPK pathway mutations and are not responding to treatment. Participants must be able to swallow capsules, have a body surface area >= 0.5 m^2, and meet specific health criteria including organ function and blood counts. Pregnant women or those on certain medications cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive selumetinib sulfate 25 mg/m2/dose orally twice daily on days 1-28. Cycles repeat every 28 days for up to 2 years 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
- Selumetinib Sulfate
Selumetinib Sulfate is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Neurofibromatosis type 1
- Neurofibromatosis type 1
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Lead Sponsor