CANCER TYPE:
Genitourinary
LOCATION:
Edmonton
OPEN DATE:
29-Jul-21
IIT-0011 (IMPACT 2.0)
Immunotherapy is one of the most significant developments in cancer treatment, and has improved outcomes in many types of cancer. However, these treatments have side effects that are unique and not seen with other types of cancer treatments. Oncologists are still learning the best way to manage these side effects. One of the most common side effects seen with cancer immunotherapy is joint swelling and/or pain, referred to as immune related arthritis and arthralgia (irAA). It is believed that irAA is similar to other types of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis. Currently, irAA is typically managed with high doses of a medication called prednisone, which can have its own side effects, and may fail to control irAA symptoms. This trial is testing whether the addition of a drug used in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, and other types of arthritis, called hydroxychloroquine, to prednisone will result in better symptom control of irAA. Cancer patients who are receiving immunotherapy drugs that develop irAA will be offered enrollment into this trial. All patients will receive a standard dose of prednisone, and in addition half of the patients will receive hydroxychloroquine, while the other half will receive a placebo. The primary goal of this trial is to determine if the combination of hydroxychloroquine and prednisone is better at controlling irAA than prednisone alone. We also aim to determine if the addition of hydroxychloroquine will help to reduce the need for prednisone, and some of the side effects associated with prednisone use.