Pre-Surgery Olaparib for Ovarian Cancer
(NEO Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the drug olaparib in shrinking tumors in patients with recurrent ovarian, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer before surgery. Patients will take olaparib (also known as Lynparza) orally for about six weeks before surgery. Some patients will continue taking it after surgery, either alone or with chemotherapy. This trial suits those who have had high-grade ovarian or related cancers, responded well to previous platinum-based treatments, and have been cancer-free for at least six months. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on measuring the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants, offering them a chance to contribute to significant advancements in cancer treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you stop using any systemic, targeted, immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or investigational agents within 4 weeks of registration. Additionally, you cannot use potent CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers. Please consult with the trial team about your specific medications.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that olaparib has been tested in several studies to assess its safety and efficacy. In past studies, patients generally tolerated olaparib well. Common side effects included fatigue, nausea, and a drop in blood cells, which can lead to anemia (a condition characterized by insufficient healthy red blood cells). Most patients found these side effects manageable.
The SOLO-1 trial focused on using olaparib for ovarian cancer, and the safety results aligned with those from other studies, revealing no major surprises or new safety concerns. Olaparib is already FDA-approved for treating certain types of cancer, indicating it has passed strict safety evaluations for those uses. However, individual experiences may vary, and participating in a trial involves close monitoring by doctors who carefully observe how the treatment affects participants.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Unlike the standard treatments for ovarian cancer, which typically involve surgery followed by chemotherapy, Olaparib offers a targeted approach by inhibiting the enzyme PARP (poly ADP-ribose polymerase). This mechanism helps prevent cancer cells from repairing their DNA, potentially leading to more effective cancer cell death. Researchers are excited about Olaparib because it can be used both before and after surgery, which might enhance its effectiveness by shrinking tumors pre-surgery and reducing recurrence risk post-surgery. Additionally, Olaparib is taken orally, which can be more convenient compared to traditional intravenous chemotherapy.
What evidence suggests that olaparib might be an effective treatment for ovarian cancer?
Research has shown that olaparib, a drug that blocks certain cancer cell functions, holds promise for treating ovarian cancer. In this trial, participants will receive olaparib either before surgery and continue after surgery, or before surgery followed by chemotherapy and then olaparib post-surgery. One study found that 92% of patients taking olaparib were cancer-free after one year, compared to 66% who took a placebo (a pill with no active drug). Another study revealed that 168 out of 255 patients taking olaparib with another drug did not experience cancer growth or recurrence, while only 40 out of 132 patients taking a placebo had the same result. These findings suggest that olaparib can help prevent cancer from worsening, offering hope for those with ovarian cancer.678910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Amit Oza, MD
Principal Investigator
Princess Margaret Cancer Centre/University Health Network
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with recurrent high-grade serous ovarian, primary peritoneal or fallopian tube cancer suitable for surgery. Participants must have responded to platinum therapy after a previous recurrence and be in good health otherwise. They should not have had certain treatments recently, no history of severe allergies to similar drugs, and agree to use contraception.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Neoadjuvant Treatment
Participants receive olaparib at 300 mg twice per day for 6 weeks prior to surgery
Surgery
Participants undergo surgery after neoadjuvant treatment
Chemotherapy
Participants receive platinum-based chemotherapy as chosen by the study doctor and per standard of care after surgery
Post-Surgery Treatment
Participants receive olaparib at 300 mg twice per day continuously after chemotherapy
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Olaparib
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University Health Network, Toronto
Lead Sponsor