NCT07685938 · UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center
Pharmacologic Therapies to Mitigate Radiation- Associated Heart Disease
What this study is about
Radiation therapy is an essential treatment for tumors in the chest area, including breast, lung, esophageal, mediastinal cancers, and spine metastases. Although technical advances have reduced treatment-related illness and death, radiation exposure to the heart can still cause substantial rates of radiation-induced heart disease (RIHD) among survivors.
View original scientific description
Radiation therapy is an essential treatment for tumors in the chest area, including breast, lung, esophageal, mediastinal cancers, and spine metastases. Although technical advances have reduced treatment-related illness and death, radiation exposure to the heart can still cause substantial rates of radiation-induced heart disease (RIHD) among survivors. For example, about 21% of non-small cell lung cancer patients receiving a mean heart dose of 20 Gy or higher experience major adverse cardiac events (MACE) within 2 years. In breast cancer patients, the risk of MACE increases by about 7% for each additional Gy of mean heart dose. There is currently no established medication strategy to prevent or reduce RIHD. Preclinical and clinical studies show that statins and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may help reduce radiation-induced heart disease (RIHD). Statins and ACE inhibitors are generally well tolerated, available as generic drugs, and commonly used to help prevent cardiovascular disease. They may protect the heart by reducing damage to blood vessel lining (endothelial damage), microvascular dysfunction, atherosclerosis, reduced blood flow (ischemia), and fibrosis (scarring). This study is a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled phase II hybrid decentralized trial. Patients receiving standard radiation therapy and expected to receive an equivalent dose of at least 25 Gy (EQD2) to at least 10% of the heart will be randomly assigned to receive either: * placebo, or * Atorvastatin 20 mg plus Lisinopril 5 mg daily. The medications will be taken during radiation therapy and continued for 6 months after treatment. The study aims to determine whether the intervention can reduce radiation-related decreases in blood flow to the heart, measured using myocardial perfusion imaging, such as positron emission tomography (PET), which is commonly used to evaluate the risk of coronary heart disease.
Interventions
DRUG
Atorvastatin and Lisinopril
Patients will receive statins and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.
DRUG
Placebo
Patients will receive placebo.
Primary outcome measures
Percent difference in the radiation (RT)-induced reduction of myocardial perfusion
Time frame: Pre radiation therapy and 6-month post radiation therapy
Percent difference in the radiation (RT)-induced reduction of myocardial perfusion in cardiac regions receiving ≥25Gy equivalent dose in 2Gy fractions (EQD2) based on comparison of before and after RT among participants receiving placebo and statins and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors intervention.
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
- Written informed consent obtained to participate in the study and HIPAA
- authorization for release of personal health information.
- Subjects is willing and able to comply with study procedures based on the
- judgement of the investigator.
- Consent for serial blood draws and consent for use of biological specimens.
- Age ≥ 18 years at the time of consent
Exclusion criteria
- Pregnant or breastfeeding (NOTE: breast milk cannot be stored for future use while the mother is being treated on study).
- Pre-existing use of a statin or ACE-inhibitor
- Pre-existing hypotension
Where
- Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Related conditions & keywords
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 Sep 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations