Clinical trials of WR-2721 with radiation therapy.

The radioprotector with clinical potential, S-2-(3 aminopropylamino)-ethylphosphorothioic acid (WR-2721) is undergoing two Phase I trials. The objectives of these trials are 1) to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of WR-2721 in a single dose and 2) to determine the highest dose of WR-2721 that can be tolerated daily in the greatest number of fractions per week. A total of 65 patients have been treated. The single maximum tolerated dose has not yet been reached, though 740 mg/m2 is well tolerated. A single dose of 910 mg/m2 has been successfully administered to one patient. The multiple dose MTD is at an early stage with patients currently receiving 170 mg/m2 four times a week. Among the toxicities noted in both trials are hypotension, hypertension, emesis and somnolence. In addition, in the multiple dose trial there have been three patients who have had allergic reactions including one which was life-threatening. Phase II studies are planned and will begin when the maximum tolerated dose is established from each Phase I trial.