The first trial covers Zoledronate, an investigational bisphosphonate being studied in patients with bone metastases from several types of cancer, including prostate. In pre-clinical studies, zoledronate has shown itself to be a most potent bisphosphonate. Arediar is under investigation for its effectiveness in treating prostate cancer patients with bone metastases. Mitoxantrone suppresses activity of certain white blood cells, known as T cells and B cells, which are key components of the immune system. This pharmaceutical product belongs to the class of drugs called synthetic antineoplastic anthracenediones.
Prednisone is from the steroid family of drugs and inhibits the body's immune system.
Approximately 200 patients and 60 investigative sites across the United States will participate in the study. The actual dose received will depend on their weight at the time of the visit. Prednisone will be administered at a dose of 5 mg by mouth twice a day throughout the study period. In addition, physicians will evaluate patients' duration to response, time to disease progression, and the effect on the patients's quality of life. MMPs have been associated with tumor growth, tumor metastasis, and angiogenesis.