Using Metformin for Rectal Cancer Treatment

Impact of Metformin on Complete Pathological Response in Rectal Cancer Patients Receiving Neoadjuvant Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy

Phase1; Phase2 Interventional Minia University · NCT06728982

This study is testing if adding metformin to standard treatment can help adults with rectal cancer get better results from their therapy.

Quick facts

PhasePhase1; Phase2
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment85 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorMinia University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Minya and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06728982 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of metformin on patients with rectal adenocarcinoma undergoing standard chemoradiotherapy. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either standard treatment or metformin alongside their therapy. The trial aims to assess the potential for metformin to enhance treatment outcomes, specifically focusing on complete pathological response. Eligible patients must be adults with confirmed rectal cancer and adequate organ function.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with a confirmed diagnosis of rectal adenocarcinoma and an ECOG performance status of 0-2.

Not a fit: Patients with metastatic disease, contraindications to metformin, or significant comorbidities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could improve treatment outcomes for rectal cancer patients by enhancing the effectiveness of chemoradiotherapy.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of metformin in cancer treatment is being explored, this specific approach in rectal cancer is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Histologically confirmed diagnosis of rectal adenocarcinoma.
2. Age starting from 18 and older.
3. Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0-2.
4. Adequate organ function (renal, hepatic, and hematological)
5. Signed informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Metastatic disease.
2. Contraindications to metformin.
3. Significant comorbidities or medical conditions that may interfere with study participation. (D.M, PCO,..)
4. eGFR less than 30 mL/min.
5. Pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Where this trial is running

Minya and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Rectal Cancer Patientsmetformincomplete pathological responserectal patientneoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.