NCT07447050 · University of California, Irvine
Riluzole For Preventing Cognitive Dysfunction in Ca Pts Receiving Chemo (REFOCUS): Pilot Trial
What this study is about
This is a phase II single-treatment group$1, Phase 2a, randomly assigned, double-blinded, compared against an inactive treatment pilot clinical trial determining effectiveness of riluzole in preventing cognitive dysfunction in subjects with cancer, who are receiving chemotherapy.
View original scientific description
This is a phase II single-arm, Phase 2a, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled pilot clinical trial determining efficacy of riluzole in preventing cognitive dysfunction in subjects with cancer, who are receiving chemotherapy.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Female and male patients diagnosed with cancer and planned to receive an anthracycline- or platinum- containing chemotherapy regimen.
- ≥18 years of age.
- Life expectancy \> 6 months
- Able to provide informed consent.
- Patients must agree to complete and be able to complete the questionnaires and computerized assessments used to measure functional outcomes. Note: Patients who have visual impairment or have degenerative conditions (e.g. Parkinsons's disease, etc.) can participate if they cannot complete computerized assessments, as long as they can still complete the questionnaires with assistance.
Exclusion criteria
- Presence of primary brain tumors or brain metastases.
- Receive a primary chemotherapy regimen that does not include anthracycline- or platinum- containing chemotherapy.
- Unwilling to undergo neuropsychological assessments necessary for the study.
- Patients who are breastfeeding, pregnant or are planning to get pregnant during the study period. POCBP must have a negative pregnancy test at screening if there is suspicion of pregnancy. Patients who are considered not to be of childbearing potential must have a history of being postmenopausal (with a minimum of 1 year without menses), tubal ligation, or hysterectomy.
- History of or suspected hypersensitivity to riluzole or to any of its excipients.
- Patients taking or planned to take medications/substances with potential drug-drug interactions: pixantrone, current smoker (defined as having smoked within the last month), abametapir, cannabis, capmatinib, lapatinib, methotrexate, and levoketoconazole.
- Hepatic impairment as indicated by: AST and/or ALT ≥ 3 X upper limit normal (ULN).
- Have serious pre-existing medical conditions that, in the judgment of the investigator, would preclude participation in this study.
Where
- Orange, California
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations