Safety and feasibility of subcutaneous amifostine administration prior to radiation therapy

Abstract

Purpose/Objective: Amifostine has been shown in a phase III trial (Brizel, et al., JCO 1999) to be an effective radioprotectant in patients with head and neck cancer. Intravenous administration of amifostine has been associated with nausea, vomiting, and hypotension. In addition, IV administration can be a logistical challenge in a radiation oncology setting. Anne, et al. (ASTRO 2001) presented their results of a phase II subcutaneous amifostine trial for patients receiving radiation therapy for head and neck cancer which may offer advantages in terms of both toxicity and convenience in the radiation therapy setting.