Triapine

This phase I trial tests the safety, side effects, and best dose of triapine in combination with temozolomide in treating patients with glioblastoma that has come back after a period of improvement (recurrent). Triapine inhibits an enzyme responsible for producing molecules required for the production of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which may inhibit tumor cell growth. Temozolomide is in a class of medications called alkylating agents. It works by damaging the cell's DNA and may kill tumor cells and slow down or stop tumor growth. Giving triapine in combination with temozolomide may be safe, tolerable, and/or effective in treating patients with recurrent glioblastoma.

This phase I trial tests the safety, side effects, and best dose of triapine in combination with radiation therapy in treating patients with glioblastoma or astrocytoma that has come back after a period of improvement (recurrent). Triapine may stop the growth of tumor cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth. Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays, particles, or radioactive seeds to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Giving triapine in combination with radiation therapy may be safe, tolerable, and/or effective in treating patients with recurrent glioblastoma or astrocytoma.