In short
Currently, there is 1 ongoing clinical trial investigating treatment options for drug eruption, specifically focusing on skin reactions caused by cancer medications called EGFR inhibitors. This trial is being conducted in France and is testing a topical gel treatment designed to manage skin rash that develops as a side effect of colorectal cancer therapy.
Clinical trial locations
Study of TAR-0520 gel for skin rash (folliculitis) caused by cancer treatment with EGFR inhibitors in colorectal cancer patients
This clinical trial focuses on treating a specific type of skin reaction called folliculitis that develops in patients receiving cancer treatment with EGFR inhibitors. These medications, such as cetuximab or panitumumab, are commonly used to treat colorectal cancer but often cause an acne-like rash on the face and chest as a side effect.
Who can participate:
- Adults aged 18 years or older
- Patients diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer (cancer that has spread from the colon or rectum to other parts of the body)
- Individuals scheduled to receive cetuximab or panitumumab as part of their chemotherapy treatment
- Both men and women are eligible
- Must be able to provide informed consent
Who cannot participate:
- Anyone under 18 years of age
- Patients with known allergies to any components of TAR-0520 gel
- Those not currently receiving treatment with anti-EGFR antibodies
- Patients with open wounds or infections on the face or chest where the gel would be applied
- Individuals with severe skin conditions other than the EGFR inhibitor-induced rash
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Patients participating in other clinical trials
- Those unable to follow study procedures or attend follow-up visits
- Patients with known hypersensitivity to topical medications
- Individuals using other treatments for skin rash without approval from the study doctor
What the trial involves:
The study evaluates a new medication called TAR-0520 gel, which contains brimonidine tartrate as its active ingredient. This gel is designed to be applied directly to the affected skin on the face and chest. Participants will use either TAR-0520 gel or a placebo gel (a gel without active medication) for 28 days. The gel needs to be applied to affected areas, with a maximum daily amount of 1.6 grams and a total amount throughout the treatment period not exceeding 44.8 grams.
The main goals of this trial are to:
- Confirm that TAR-0520 gel is well-tolerated by patients experiencing skin reactions from their cancer treatment
- Monitor how effectively the gel manages the skin inflammation and rash
- Assess the severity of skin reactions using specific evaluation scales
- Track any side effects that may occur during treatment
Throughout the study, participants will have their skin condition monitored regularly, and they will complete questionnaires about their experience with the treatment. The trial represents a targeted approach to managing the uncomfortable skin side effects that often accompany cancer therapy, potentially improving the quality of life for patients undergoing colorectal cancer treatment. The study is expected to continue until September 2026.
Summary
Currently, only one clinical trial is actively recruiting patients for treatment of drug eruption related to cancer therapy. This trial is being conducted exclusively in France and specifically targets patients with colorectal cancer who are experiencing skin reactions from EGFR inhibitor medications. The focus is on topical treatment with TAR-0520 gel, representing a non-invasive approach to managing this common and often distressing side effect of cancer treatment. The limited number of trials in this area suggests this is a specialized field of research, addressing the specific needs of cancer patients who develop skin complications during their treatment journey.
