Supporting the developing immune responseSupporting the developing immune responseScience of IRX-2 › Regimen
Regimen: IRX-2 is given with other medications believed to support the immune response
IRX-2 is not given alone. Instead, it is given as part of regimens containing additional pharmacologic agents that can support the promotion of an anticancer immune response. One regimen (the IRX-2 Neoadjuvant Regimen) is given before curative surgery, and another (the IRX-2 Booster Regimen) is given after surgery.
The components of each regimen are the same, except for differences in administration timing and location, as well as treatment duration.
The additional components of the IRX-2 regimen are low-dose cyclophosphamide, indomethacin, zinc-containing multivitamins, and omeprazole. Like IRX-2, these additional medications are not part of the standard treatment given to patients with cancer. However, it is believed they may be beneficial in supporting IRX-2 in the promotion of an anticancer immune response and in minimizing possible side effects of other components of the regimen.
Additional Pharmacologic Components in the IRX‑2 Regimens
| Component | Dosage | Rationale for Use |
|---|---|---|
| Low-dose cyclophosphamide | 300 mg/m2 IV (single dose) | Noncytotoxic dose inhibits T regulatory cells that suppress immune function |
| Indomethacin | 25 mg TID orally | Reverses local immune suppression by prostaglandins |
| Zinc-containing multivitamin | 1 tablet daily orally | Reduces nutrition-related immunosuppression |
| Omeprazole | 20 mg daily orally | Protects stomach against erosive effects of indomethacin |
IV, intravenous; TID, three times a day.