A Pilot Study of the Treatment of VEGF-Signaling Pathway Inhibitor-Induced Hypertension With Direct Vasodilators, Minoxidil and Hydralazine
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ongoing treatment for malignancy by at the University of Chicago with any agent with
recognized, specific inhibition of VEGF, VEGF-receptors, or downstream signaling
molecules with the specific intention of inhibiting signaling of this pathway. These
agents include but are not limited to: bevacizumab (Avastin™), sorafenib (Nexavar™),
sunitinib (Sutent™), axitinib (AG-013736), and AZD 2171.
- Treatment of hypertension with at least 2 or more anti-hypertensive medications with
blood pressure remaining greater than 140/90 mmHg.
- Stable management of other toxicities from the cancer treatments
- Expected to continue current cancer treatments for at least 4 weeks
- 18 years and older
- Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent document
prior to any study specific procedures.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Concurrent use of hematopoietic supportive treatment with erythropoietin or
congeners.
- Current uncontrolled toxicities due to the cancer treatments.
- Patients having known contraindications to hydralazine or minoxidil therapy.
- Any readings of systolic blood pressure >200 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure >120
mmHg in the four (4) weeks prior to screening.
- Use of either minoxidil or hydralazine in the six (6) months prior to screening.