Regorafenib for Thyroid Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether regorafenib, a targeted therapy, can effectively treat thyroid cancer by attacking cancer cells while sparing normal ones. It specifically targets individuals with metastatic medullary thyroid cancer that has progressed within the last six months. Participants should have tried at least one other targeted therapy. For those with worsening thyroid cancer, this trial could be suitable. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial requires stopping certain medications, like other anti-cancer therapies and some blood thinners, before starting the study drug. If you're on a medication like warfarin, you may need to switch to a low dose and be monitored closely. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that regorafenib is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that regorafenib has been tested for safety in various conditions, including cancer. In one study involving 132 patients, regorafenib was generally well-tolerated, though some patients experienced side effects. A common issue was an increase in thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, affecting about 31% of patients early in treatment.
The FDA has already approved regorafenib for other types of cancer, indicating it has passed several safety checks. However, every drug can cause side effects, and individuals may react differently. Prospective trial participants should discuss potential risks with the study team.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for thyroid cancer?
Regorafenib is unique because it targets multiple pathways involved in thyroid cancer growth, setting it apart from standard treatments like surgery, radioactive iodine, and anti-thyroid drugs. This multi-kinase inhibitor works by blocking enzymes that promote tumor growth and blood vessel formation, potentially stopping cancer cells in their tracks. Researchers are excited because regorafenib’s ability to target these pathways could lead to more effective control of the disease, especially for patients who don't respond well to traditional therapies.
What evidence suggests that regorafenib might be an effective treatment for thyroid cancer?
Research suggests that regorafenib, administered to participants in this trial, might help treat thyroid cancer by targeting specific cancer cells. In earlier studies, 9% of patients experienced tumor shrinkage, and 40.9% had stable disease without progression. On average, patients lived without cancer progression for about 2.7 months and had an overall survival time of 10 months. Although information on using regorafenib for thyroid cancer is limited, its targeted approach shows promise.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Kartik Seghal, MD
Principal Investigator
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults with metastatic medullary thyroid cancer who've had at least one prior targeted therapy can join this study. They must be able to take oral meds, have a life expectancy of 3+ months, and agree to use contraception. Excluded are those with recent severe bleeding, certain infections like HIV or hepatitis B/C, uncontrolled high blood pressure, known allergies to the drug being tested (regorafenib), or other serious health issues.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive regorafenib tablets 80mg orally, once daily for 21 days per cycle
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Regorafenib
Regorafenib is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Metastatic colorectal cancer
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
- Metastatic colorectal cancer
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)
- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Lead Sponsor
Bayer
Industry Sponsor
Bill Anderson
Bayer
Chief Executive Officer since 2023
BSc in Chemical Engineering from the University of Texas, MSc in Chemical Engineering and Management from MIT
Michael Devoy
Bayer
Chief Medical Officer since 2014
MD, PhD