thalidomide + cetuximab + FOLFOX + FOLFIRI

This is an investigational multi-agent chemotherapy regimen combining thalidomide, cetuximab, and two standard colorectal cancer regimens—FOLFOX and FOLFIRI. **Thalidomide** is an immunomodulatory and antiangiogenic agent that inhibits tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin 6, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). It also binds cereblon to degrade transcription factors IKZF1/3[8]. **Cetuximab** is a chimeric monoclonal antibody targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), blocking ligand binding and downstream signaling. **FOLFOX** consists of folinic acid (leucovorin), fluorouracil (5-FU), and oxaliplatin; it acts by inhibiting DNA synthesis through multiple mechanisms[6][9]. **FOLFIRI** includes folinic acid, fluorouracil, and irinotecan; irinotecan inhibits topoisomerase I leading to DNA damage[7][10]. The rationale for this combination is to enhance antitumor efficacy in advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer by combining cytotoxic chemotherapy with targeted therapy and immunomodulation. Clinical trials are ongoing to assess whether adding thalidomide improves outcomes when combined with cetuximab plus standard chemotherapy regimens like FOLFOX/FOLFIRI[1][4].

Brand names

Eloxatin