Liver cancer combo trial halted early – only 18 patients enrolled

NCT ID NCT05171166

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether adding a stronger chemotherapy infusion (HAIC-TACE) to the targeted drug donafenib works better than standard treatment for people with intermediate-stage liver cancer that cannot be removed by surgery. The trial was stopped early and only included 18 participants, so the results are not reliable enough to draw firm conclusions.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Donafenib (a targeted cancer drug) and chemotherapy (oxaliplatin, 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin calcium) given via liver artery infusion

What this could lead to

If successful, this combination could offer a new treatment option for people with intermediate-stage liver cancer that cannot be surgically removed.

What could go wrong

The trial was terminated early and enrolled only 18 people, so results are very preliminary. The combination may not improve survival and could cause serious side effects from chemotherapy and targeted therapy.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

hepatocellular carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Peking University Cancer Hospital

    Beijing, Beijing Municipality, 100142, China