The Celgene Corporation is collaborating with
the National Cancer Institutes Radiation Treatment Oncology
Group (RTOG) on a study of the use of thalidomide (Thalomid) in
conjunction with conventional surgery and radiation for the initial
treatment of glioblastoma multiforme. The study will enroll
approximately 80 patients and is designed to assess the drugs
safety and efficacy in prolonging survival. Fifteen sites around the
country will be involved in the study.
According to lead investigators, the protocol will include patients
who have not previously undergone radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
Following surgery, participants will be given thalidomide, at a dose
of 200 mg once daily, on the first day of their radiation treatment.
Thereafter, each patients dose will increase by 100 to 200 mg
daily every 1 to 2 weeks, to a maximum dose of 1,200 mg daily.
Therapy will continue at that dose as long as no tumor progression or
toxicity occurs. The study is expected to last approximately 2 years.
The RTOG is very excited about testing Thalomid with radiation,
in conjunction with Celgene Corporation, said Walter J. Curran,
MD, group chairman of the RTOG.
Glioblastoma multiforme is a type of brain tumor that multiplies
rapidly and most often affects the cerebrum. It is the most common,
most often fatal type of malignant brain tumor and tends to recur
even after intensive treatment with surgery, chemotherapy, and
radiotherapy. The condition is diagnosed in approximately 9,000
individuals annually who live an average of 6 to 12 months after diagnosis.
For more information on the collaborative study call the Celgene
Corporation at (732) 271-4102.
