Phase 3 Study of T-DXd and Rilvegostomig Versus SoC in Advanced HER2-expressing Biliary Tract Cancer
This research study is for people with advanced bile duct cancer that shows a particular protein called HER2. Researchers are comparing two new drug combinations, T-DXd with rilvegostomig, or T-DXd on its own, against the current standard treatments (gemcitabine, cisplatin, and durvalumab). The main goal is to find out if these new treatments are more effective at shrinking the cancer or stopping it from growing, and to understand their safety profiles. It's a 'Phase 3' study, which means it's one of the final steps before a treatment might become more widely available, looking for clear benefits in a larger group of patients. All participants in this study will not have received prior treatment for their advanced bile duct cancer.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This clinical trial is focused on advanced biliary tract cancer, often called bile duct cancer. For patients whose cancer has grown or spread (advanced) and hasn't been treated before, doctors are always looking for better and safer ways to help. This study is particularly for people whose bile duct cancer has a specific feature called 'HER2-expressing'. This means the cancer cells have a lot of a protein called HER2 on their surface, and some new medicines are designed to target this specific protein.
The trial aims to compare two new treatment approaches against what's currently considered standard care. The standard care involves a combination of chemotherapy drugs, gemcitabine and cisplatin, along with another drug called durvalumab, which helps the body's immune system fight cancer. The new approaches are either a drug called T-DXd combined with another drug called rilvegostomig, or T-DXd used by itself.
By comparing these different treatments, researchers hope to discover if the new drug combinations are more effective at treating the HER2-expressing bile duct cancer and if they have acceptable side effects. This is a 'Phase 3' study, which means it's a large, important step in determining if these new treatments could become available to more people in the future. The information gathered from this study will help doctors and patients make informed decisions about treatment options for this specific type of cancer.
Key takeaways
- Study for advanced, previously untreated HER2-expressing bile duct cancer.
- Compares new drug combinations against standard treatment.
- Aims to find more effective and safer treatment options.
- Requires a recent tumour sample to confirm HER2 status.
- Close medical monitoring and regular hospital visits are involved.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old. You must have advanced bile duct cancer that doctors consider 'unresectable' (meaning surgery isn't an option) or has spread to other parts of the body. Importantly, you shouldn't have received previous treatment for this advanced cancer, though prior treatment given to prevent recurrence after earlier surgery (adjuvant treatment) might be allowed if it was more than 3 months ago.
Your cancer must also show a specific marker called HER2. Doctors will check this by looking at a recent tumour sample. You should be generally well enough to take part, meaning you can do most of your daily activities without much difficulty, and your important organs (like your kidneys, liver, and blood) are working well. If you are a woman who could become pregnant, you would need to have passed menopause or have a negative pregnancy test.
There are some reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you've already had treatments that target HER2, other similar new drugs, or certain immune-boosting therapies. Also, if you have a specific type of bile duct cancer called ampullary carcinoma, or certain heart conditions, or untreated brain or spinal cord problems, you might not be eligible. The study doctors will carefully check all these details to make sure the study is safe and appropriate for you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you at least 18 years old?
- Do you have advanced bile duct cancer that is HER2-positive?
- Have you not received prior treatment for your advanced cancer?
- Are you generally well and able to carry out daily activities?
- Are your organs, like your kidneys and liver, working properly?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to join this study, you will be assigned to one of the treatment groups (either the new drug combinations or the standard treatment). You will receive your assigned medication, which will involve regular visits to the clinic for treatment and check-ups. During these visits, the study team will carry out various assessments, such as blood tests, scans (like CT or MRI), and physical examinations, to monitor your health, how the treatment is working, and any side effects you might experience. You will also be asked to provide a tumour sample that is no older than 3 years. The total length of your participation will depend on how you respond to the treatment and the study plan, but there will be ongoing follow-up to monitor your progress and health.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (270)
- Research SiteVerified postcodeScottsdale, United States· Recruiting
- Research SiteVerified postcodeTucson, United States· Withdrawn
- Research SiteVerified postcodeTucson, United States· Not yet recruiting
- Research SiteVerified postcodeFullerton, United States· Recruiting
- Research SiteVerified postcodeLa Jolla, United States· Recruiting
- Research SiteVerified postcodeLos Alamitos, United States· Suspended
- Research SiteVerified postcodeLos Angeles, United States· Recruiting
- Research SiteVerified postcodeLos Angeles, United States· Recruiting
- Research SiteVerified postcodeSan Francisco, United States· Recruiting
- Research SiteVerified postcodeWalnut Creek, United States· Not yet recruiting
- Research SiteVerified postcodeWashington D.C., United States· Not yet recruiting
- Research SiteVerified postcodeFort Myers, United States· Recruiting
Common questions
What is HER2-expressing bile duct cancer?
It means the cancer cells have a lot of a specific protein called HER2 on their surface, which can sometimes be targeted by certain medicines.
What does 'advanced' cancer mean in this study?
It means the cancer has grown into surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body, and surgery to remove it isn't possible.
Will I know which treatment I'm getting?
This study compares different treatments, and you'll be assigned to one of the groups. The study team will explain how this works.
How often will I need to visit the hospital?
Participation involves regular visits for your treatment, tests, and check-ups. The exact schedule will be explained by the study team.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes, you can choose to leave the study at any point, and this will not affect your ongoing medical care.
How to find out more
AstraZeneca Clinical Study Information Center
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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