In short
This article provides information about ongoing clinical trials for triple positive breast cancer. Currently, there is 1 clinical trial available, focused on managing hot flashes in women receiving endocrine therapy after breast cancer treatment. The trial is taking place in the Netherlands and compares two medications to improve quality of life during treatment.
Clinical trial locations
Study on Oxybutynin and Venlafaxine for Reducing Hot Flashes in Women Undergoing Endocrine Therapy After Breast Cancer
This study, known as the RED FLASH study, is designed to help women who have completed breast cancer treatment and are now experiencing hot flashes as a side effect of their ongoing endocrine therapy. Hot flashes are sudden feelings of warmth that can be quite uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life.
Main inclusion criteria: This trial is open to women aged 18 or older who are at any stage of menopause (before, during, or after). Participants must be receiving endocrine therapy with medications such as tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors, or luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone analogues for at least 4 weeks and plan to continue this treatment during the study. Women need to experience at least 14 hot flashes per week for a minimum of 1 month and wish to start medication to manage these symptoms.
Main exclusion criteria: Women who have any other type of cancer besides breast cancer cannot participate. The study is only for female participants, and those considered part of a vulnerable population who cannot make decisions for themselves are also excluded.
Focus and goal: The trial aims to determine which of two medications—oxybutynin or venlafaxine—is more effective at reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes. This is a cross-over study, meaning participants will receive both treatments at different times, allowing researchers to compare the effects within the same person. The study lasts several weeks, with each treatment phase lasting 6 weeks. Participants will keep a daily hot flash diary to track their symptoms. The study also evaluates other important aspects such as side effects, sleep quality, overall quality of life, and mental health factors like anxiety and depression.
Investigational drugs: Oxybutynin is a medication typically used to treat overactive bladder symptoms but is being tested here for its ability to reduce hot flashes. It works by blocking certain receptors in the body that may help with temperature regulation. Venlafaxine is an antidepressant from a class of medications called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It is commonly used to treat depression and anxiety but has also been found to help manage hot flashes by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Both medications are taken orally.
Summary
Currently, there is only one ongoing clinical trial specifically targeting the management of hot flashes in women with triple positive breast cancer who are undergoing endocrine therapy. This trial is being conducted in the Netherlands and focuses on comparing two different medications to improve patients' quality of life during treatment. The study represents an important effort to address a common and distressing side effect of breast cancer treatment, potentially offering women better options for managing their symptoms. While the trial does not aim to treat the cancer itself, it addresses a significant quality-of-life concern that affects many women after breast cancer treatment.
