Columbia University is enrolling participants in the Phase II clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of a chemotherapy drug program to treat mesothelioma.
The treatment program involves oxiliplatin and gemcitabine .
Oxaliplatin is an organic compound that targets cancer cells be inhibiting or preventing replication and repart of the cancer cells’ DNA. Gemcitabine is a cancer drug that targets the replication processes of cancer cells’ DNA by inhibiting the production of material necessary for DNA synthesis.
The 6-month study is expected to involve 29 patients. During the study period, all participants will receive both oxaliplatin and gemcitabine through IV infusions given separately and in succession. All participants will receive six courses of treatment unless adverse reactions occur that make it necessary for treatment to stop. For patients who respond well to the initial six courses of chemotherapy, researchers may opt to continue treatment if it’s determined the patients would benefit.
Once the Phase II trial is completed, researchers plan to embark on a Phase III trial in 2010 or 2011.
House of the Dead ipod Mesothelioma is a cancer usually associated with asbestos exposure.
Tags: asbestos exposure, Mesothelioma