Effect of Ca/Mg on neurotoxicity and blood concentration of platinum in patients on mFOLFOX6 therapy: A prospective randomized study

Abstract

20639 Background: It remains controversial whether or not administration of calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) can reduce the neurotoxicity specific to FOLFOX therapy. In addition, little is known about the effect of Ca/Mg on the blood concentration of platinum. Methods: Patients on mFOLFOX6 therapy for unresectable colorectal cancer were randomized to receive Ca/Mg (Ca/Mg group, n=17) or placebo (Placebo group, n=16) before and after the administration of oxaliplatin (85 mg/m2). In the Ca/Mg group, calcium gluconate (CalcicolR, 10 ml) and magnesium sulfate (Conclyte MgR, 10 ml) were infused before and after oxaliplatin. In both groups, blood samples were collected to determine the total and ultrafiltrable levels of platinum in plasma before and after (5 min, 1 hr, 3 hr, one week, and two weeks) administration of oxaliplatin in the first and fifth cycles of mFOLFOX6 therapy. Results: The cumulative occurrence of neurotoxicity (≥grade 2) did not differ between the two groups (p=0.97). Blood concentrations of platinum at each time and the area under the curve (AUC) were also not significantly different between the two groups. Furthermore, the response rate (RR) and disease control rate (DCR) did not differ significantly between the two groups (Ca/Mg group: RR 36%, DCR 73%. placebo group: RR 40%, DCR 70%, p>0.99). Conclusions: Administration of calcium and magnesium may not have any effect on neurotoxicity, the blood concentration profile of platinum, or the response rate in patients receiving mFOLFOX6 therapy. No significant financial relationships to disclose.