Temozolomide + Atezolizumab for Small Cell Lung Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests the effectiveness of combining the chemotherapy drug temozolomide with the immunotherapy drug atezolizumab for treating small cell lung cancer that has spread or recurred after initial treatment. The goal is to determine if these drugs can slow the cancer's growth or spread and potentially improve patient survival. Individuals whose small cell lung cancer has returned or spread after previous chemotherapy may be suitable candidates for this trial. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on assessing the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of participants.
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, if you are on certain treatments like chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or have had recent surgery, you may need to wait for a recovery period before starting the trial. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research is examining the effectiveness of combining temozolomide and atezolizumab as a second or third treatment option for small cell lung cancer. Temozolomide, a chemotherapy drug, kills cancer cells or stops their growth. Atezolizumab, an immunotherapy, aids the immune system in fighting cancer cells.
Earlier studies have shown that temozolomide can have positive effects in some patients with recurrent small cell lung cancer, though not universally. Atezolizumab is already a standard treatment for certain lung cancers and is generally considered safe.
This trial is in phase 2, focusing on safety monitoring. This phase assesses whether the treatment is well-tolerated and identifies any side effects. Since atezolizumab is approved for other uses, there is some confidence in its safety. However, the combination with temozolomide is still under study to ensure it does not cause unexpected issues. Participants are closely monitored for any side effects.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about the combination of temozolomide and atezolizumab for small cell lung cancer because it brings a fresh approach to treatment. Traditionally, treatments like chemotherapy have been the go-to options, but this new combo adds an immune system boost to the mix. Atezolizumab is an immunotherapy drug that helps the body's own immune system recognize and fight cancer cells, while temozolomide, an oral chemotherapy, aims to stop cancer cells from growing. Together, they might offer a more powerful attack on cancer than using chemotherapy alone. This combination could potentially improve outcomes for patients by harnessing the body's natural defenses alongside traditional methods.
What evidence suggests that temozolomide and atezolizumab might be effective treatments for small cell lung cancer?
Research has shown that using temozolomide and atezolizumab together might help patients with small cell lung cancer live longer. In this trial, participants will join one of two cohorts, both receiving a combination of temozolomide and atezolizumab. Temozolomide, a type of chemotherapy, stops cancer cells from growing and spreading. Atezolizumab, an immunotherapy, helps the immune system fight cancer and is already approved for other types of lung cancer. Studies have found that atezolizumab, when combined with other drugs, helped patients live longer without their cancer worsening. The goal is for these two treatments together to provide similar benefits for people whose small cell lung cancer has spread or returned.36789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Dwight Owen, MD
Principal Investigator
Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with small cell lung cancer that has spread or returned after initial treatment. Participants must be able to take oral meds, have measurable disease, and a good performance status. They should not have had certain treatments recently and must agree to use contraception.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Patients receive atezolizumab intravenously and temozolomide orally in two different dosing schedules. Cycles repeat every 28 days in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment completion, with follow-up at 30 days and every 3 months thereafter.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Atezolizumab
- Temozolomide
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Dwight Owen
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
Genentech, Inc.
Industry Sponsor
Ashley Magargee
Genentech, Inc.
Chief Executive Officer since 2024
MBA from Harvard University, BA from Princeton University
Levi Garraway
Genentech, Inc.
Chief Medical Officer since 2021
MD, PhD