New drug combo aims to shrink mouth cancer before surgery

NCT ID NCT06448026

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jul 31, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This phase 2 trial tests whether giving two drugs, cemiplimab and cetuximab, before salvage surgery can help control recurrent oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma. The study involves 17 adults whose cancer has returned at least 3 months after prior treatment. Researchers will monitor safety and side effects.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
Cemiplimab and cetuximab
What this could lead to
If it works, this combination could help shrink tumors before surgery, potentially improving outcomes for people with recurrent mouth cancer.
What could go wrong
This is a very small, early-phase trial with only 17 participants. The drugs may cause side effects, and results may not apply to all patients.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • MD Anderson Cancer Center

    RECRUITING

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

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