Phase I and pharmacokinetic study of D-verapamil and doxorubicin
1991

Study of D-verapamil and doxorubicin in cancer treatment

Sample size: 10 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): D. Bissett, D.J. Kerr, J. Cassidy, P. Meredith, U. Traugott, S.B. Kaye

Primary Institution: Beatson Oncology Centre, Western Infirmary, Glasgow

Hypothesis

Can D-verapamil safely enhance the effectiveness of doxorubicin in treating cancer?

Conclusion

D-verapamil at lower doses (800 mg daily) is well tolerated with doxorubicin, while higher doses lead to significant cardiovascular toxicity.

Supporting Evidence

  • 5 out of 6 patients experienced hypotension at the highest dose of D-verapamil.
  • Patients tolerated 800 mg daily of D-verapamil without significant cardiovascular issues.
  • One patient had a partial response to treatment lasting 8 months.

Takeaway

Doctors tested a new drug to help cancer treatment, and found that a lower dose is safer and works better with another medicine.

Methodology

Patients received oral D-verapamil and doxorubicin, with monitoring for toxicity and pharmacokinetics.

Potential Biases

Potential bias in patient selection and reporting of outcomes.

Limitations

The study had a small sample size and was limited to outpatient settings.

Participant Demographics

Median age 49 years, 3 males and 7 females, with various types of cancer.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.04

Statistical Significance

p=0.04

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