CompletedPhase 2

Investigation of the Effect of Vitamin K3-lotion for the Treatment of Cetuximab Induced Folliculitis

Denmark30 participantsStarted 2010-05

Plain-language summary

The study aims to explore the benefit of topical vitamin K3 lotion for the reactivation/rephosphorylation of EGF-receptor in the skin and the possible reduction in cutaneous side effects of EGFr-inhibition. Primary aim: The possible reduction of cutaneous side effects: folliculitis, dryness and redness of the skin. Secondary aim: To explore any possible side effects of topical vitamin K3 lotion. Methods: 36 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer or metastatic head and neck cancer allocated to treatment with chemotherapy and biweekly cetuximab. Two equally sized areas of at least 10x10 cm on the back or chest of the patient is marked. Patients receive in a double blinded procedure placebo lotion on one side and vitamin K3 lotion on the other side. The treatment may last for a maximum of two months and the patients are followed biweekly with photos, VAS-scores, questionnaires and CTCAE estimations. The patient will be able to take weekly photos at home during the weeks they are not seen at the outpatient clinic. During the treatment all other skin products or antibiotics is allowed and will be carefully registered by the health care professionals in the outpatient clinic. The patient may enter the trial in two different ways: 18 patients start treatment with study lotions at the time they start treatment with cetuximab. The other 18 patients start treatment with study lotions when folliculitis appears. Patients are asked for 1.5 mm skin biopsies of both study areas of the skin before start of treatment and after 4 weeks of treatment with placebo lotion and vitamin K3 lotion. These biopsies will be investigated for EGFr, phosphorylated EGFr and other central downstream mechanisms. The biopsy part of the study is optional for the patient.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years – 75 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Planned or ongoing treatment with cetuximab * Age at least 18 years * Informed written consent according to local and national legislation Exclusion Criteria: * Known disease that can influence either treatment, evaluation and the outcome of the current disease and treatment, including chronic dermatology * Known hypersensitivity to menadion * Concomitant treatment with Vitamin K or Vitamin K-antagonists * Known psychological, family, sociological or geographic conditions which potentially can influence planned study treatment or follow-up

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Potential reduction in skin toxicity by vitamin K3 lotion

Timeframe: 3 months

Trial details

NCT IDNCT01094444

SponsorPer Pfeiffer

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2013-12

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Folliculitis trials