Study of Memantine Treatment in Adults With Advanced Liver Cirrhosis and Liver Cancer Not Suitable for Intensive Therapy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of memantine, a single drug, in patients with unresectable, locally advanced, or metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma HCC who also have cirrhosis and are not candidates for intensive systemic therapy. This prospective study aims to describe the drugs effects on disease progression and quality of life over time. The study is sponsored by Inova Health Care Services and focuses on patients with a Child-Pugh cirrhosis score of B7 or higher and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0-2. Participants will receive memantine starting at 5 mg by mouth once daily, with doses increased up to 20 mg daily as tolerated. The study is conducted at a single site and follows patients through treatment to assess efficacy endpoints, including progression-free survival at 6 months. The treatment plan excludes aggressive systemic therapies and allows palliative radiation for symptom control. During the study, participants will be monitored for disease progression and quality of life changes. Assessments include measuring tumor lesions by RECIST 1.1 criteria and ensuring adequate blood counts and organ function. Safety is closely observed, especially regarding pregnancy risks, cardiovascular health, and other medical conditions. The study continues until August 31, 2026, with ongoing evaluations at defined intervals.

A Prospective Study of Memantine in Patients With Cirrhosis and Liver Cancer