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NCT06912087 · University of Chicago

Dose Finding Study of Zanzalintinib With Pembrolizumab and Cetuximab in Head and Neck SCC

What this study is about

This Phase I clinical trial evaluates the safety, tolerability, and optimal dosing of Zanzalintinib in combination with Pembrolizumab and Cetuximab in patients with recurrent and/or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (R/M HNSCC).

View original scientific description

This Phase I clinical trial evaluates the safety, tolerability, and optimal dosing of Zanzalintinib in combination with Pembrolizumab and Cetuximab in patients with recurrent and/or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (R/M HNSCC). The study aims to establish the maximally tolerated dose (MTD) and recommended Phase II dose (RP2D) while also exploring efficacy outcomes, including progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

Interventions

DRUG

Zanzalintinib

Experimental receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs)

DRUG

Cetuximab

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved monoclonal antibody directed against the epidermal growth factor (EGFR).

DRUG

Pembrolizumab

FDA approved monoclonal immunoglobulin (Ig) G4 antibody directed against human cell surface receptor PD-1 (programmed death-1 or programmed cell death-1)

Primary outcome measures

Maximally Tolerated Dose (MTD) of Zanzalintinib in Combination with Pembrolizumab and Cetuximab

Time frame: end of DLT evaluation period (first 28 days of treatment)

The MTD will be defined as the dose combination with a dose-limiting toxicities (DLT) rate closest to the target DLT rate of 25%.

Recommended Phase II Dose (RP2D) of Zanzalintinib in Combination with Pembrolizumab and Cetuximab

Time frame: End of enrollment

The RP2D will be defined as the MTD identified after enrollment to all cohorts.

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

  • Histologically or cytologically confirmed recurrent and/or metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (R/M HNSCC), which is considered incurable by local therapies.
  • Primary tumor locations: oropharynx, oral cavity, hypopharynx, larynx, nasopharynx, and sinonasal. Unknown primary is also eligible.
  • Age: Participants must be at least 18 years old.
  • ECOG Performance Status: Must be 0-1.
  • Measurable disease by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1 criteria.
  • For oropharyngeal cancer: HPV (p16) testing is required. p16 Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is sufficient for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) testing.
  • Programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) combined positive score (CPS) : For patients with previously untreated R/M disease, a combined positive score (CPS) of 1 or greater is required. There is no PD-L1 restriction for patients who have previously received anti-PD(L)1 therapy.
  • Recovery to baseline or ≤ Grade 1 severity (CTCAE v5) from any adverse events (AEs), including immune-related AEs from prior treatments.
  • Adequate organ and marrow function, including:
  • Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) ≥ 1500/mm3.
  • Platelets ≥ 100,000/mm3.
  • Hemoglobin ≥ 9 g/dL.
  • Normal liver and kidney function.
  • Capable of understanding and complying with the protocol requirements and must have signed the informed consent document.
  • Contraception: Sexually active fertile subjects must agree to use a highly effective method of contraception during the study and for 2 months after the last dose of cetuximab and 4 months after the last dose of pembrolizumab.

Exclusion criteria

  • Prior treatment with Zanzalintinib or other vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-targeted therapies, -Cetuximab, or other epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors.
  • More than two prior lines of systemic therapy in the recurrent/metastatic setting.
  • Relapsed disease within 3 months of definitive therapy.
  • Prior treatment with small molecule kinase inhibitors, chemotherapy, biologic, or other anticancer therapies within certain time frames (2-4 weeks before the first dose of study treatment).
  • Brain metastases or cranial epidural disease unless stable after treatment for at least 4 weeks.
  • Concomitant anticoagulation with oral anticoagulants or platelet inhibitors, unless on stable doses of acceptable anticoagulants.
  • Active infection requiring systemic treatment or significant cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, or other serious health issues that may affect study participation.
  • Known or suspected autoimmune disease, except for specific conditions like type I diabetes or controlled skin disorders.
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Women must not be pregnant or breastfeeding at screening.
  • Other malignancies within the past 2 years (except for certain low-grade cancers like localized skin cancers).

Where

  • Chicago, Illinois

Collaborators

Exelixis

Related conditions & keywords

Head and Neck NeoplasmsCarcinoma, Squamous CellNeoplasm Recurrence, LocalNeoplasm MetastasisRecurrent Squamous Cell CarcinomaMetastatic Squamous Cell Carcinoma

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 Dec 2, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations

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1 of 36 participants interested
3% interest

See if this study fits

A short prescreen based on this study's listed criteria. A coordinator confirms eligibility — this is not a medical assessment.

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Study locations

Choose your preferred location, or select flexible during enrollment.

RECRUITING

Chicago

Illinois

Location available

Express your interest

Share your contact details and a study coordinator can follow up about screening.

Secure & Confidential

Your information is protected and will only be shared with the research team.

What participation can include

  • Study-related care provided by the research team
  • Close monitoring by medical professionals
  • Possible compensation for time and travel*
  • The option to withdraw at any time
  • Contributing to medical research that may help future patients

*Compensation varies by study. Confirm details with coordinator.

Typical next steps

  1. 1.Submit this form
  2. 2.Phone screening
  3. 3.In-person assessment if eligible
  4. 4.Begin participation

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Looking for Head and Neck Neoplasms Treatment in Chicago?

Join others in Illinois exploring innovative treatment options through clinical research

Head and Neck Neoplasms Treatment Options in Chicago, Illinois

If you're searching for Head and Neck Neoplasms treatment in Chicago, participating in a clinical research study may provide access to innovative approaches under expert medical supervision. This study is actively recruiting participants in Chicago and surrounding areas.

Clinical trials offer participants the opportunity to receive cutting-edge treatments while contributing to medical research that may help future patients with Head and Neck Neoplasms. All study-related care is provided at no cost to participants.

Local Sites
1 locations in Illinois
Now Enrolling
Up to 36 participants
Quick Start
Screening available now

Why Consider a Clinical Trial for Head and Neck Neoplasms?

Potential Benefits

  • Access to new treatment approaches before public availability
  • Close monitoring by experienced medical professionals
  • Study-related care provided at no cost
  • Contribute to medical research for Head and Neck Neoplasms

What to Expect

  • Initial screening to determine eligibility
  • Regular check-ups and monitoring visits
  • Possible compensation for time and travel
  • You can withdraw at any time

Frequently Asked Questions About This Head and Neck Neoplasms Study

Important Clinical Trial Information

This information is provided for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical trial participation involves potential risks and benefits. Eligibility requirements apply and will be assessed during the screening process.

Study identifier: NCT06912087. For complete study details, visit ClinicalTrials.gov. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making decisions about your medical care or participating in clinical research.