Chemotherapy + Bevacizumab for Ovarian & Related Cancers

This trial tests the effectiveness of two chemotherapy drugs, paclitaxel and carboplatin, with or without bevacizumab (also known as Avastin), in treating advanced ovarian, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancers. Paclitaxel and carboplatin aim to stop cancer cell growth, while bevacizumab helps prevent tumors from obtaining the blood supply they need. The trial compares two schedules for administering paclitaxel to determine which is more effective. Ideal participants are those diagnosed with stage II-IV ovarian, primary peritoneal, or fallopian tube cancer with measurable disease. As a Phase 3 trial, this study represents the final step before FDA approval, offering participants a chance to contribute to potentially groundbreaking cancer treatment advancements.

The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on certain blood thinners like warfarin, you may need to maintain a specific dose. It's best to discuss your current medications with the trial team.

Research has shown that the combination of paclitaxel and carboplatin is generally well-tolerated by patients with ovarian cancer. This drug combination is a common and standard treatment for this type of cancer. One study found no significant difference in safety whether administered weekly or every three weeks. Another study confirmed the effectiveness of using paclitaxel and carboplatin together without causing unexpected side effects.

Researchers are excited about the combination of chemotherapy with Bevacizumab for ovarian and related cancers because it adds a unique approach to tackling these conditions. Bevacizumab is an antibody that targets and inhibits a protein called VEGF, which is responsible for the growth of blood vessels that feed tumors. This mechanism of action is different from traditional chemotherapy, which directly kills cancer cells. By combining Bevacizumab with standard chemotherapy drugs like Carboplatin and Paclitaxel, there's potential for a more effective treatment that not only attacks cancer cells but also cuts off their nutrient supply, potentially improving outcomes for patients.

Research has shown that using paclitaxel and carboplatin together is a common and effective treatment for ovarian cancer. This combination helps stop cancer cells from growing and spreading. In this trial, participants in Arm I will receive paclitaxel and carboplatin every three weeks, while those in Arm II will receive paclitaxel weekly and carboplatin every three weeks. One study found that changing the schedule of paclitaxel from every three weeks to weekly did not significantly affect how long patients lived without the cancer worsening. Bevacizumab, another drug used in some studies, helps stop the tumor from growing by cutting off its blood supply, making it a strong addition in certain cases. Overall, the paclitaxel and carboplatin combination is a reliable choice for treating these cancers.¹³⁴⁵⁶