Tolinapant and Radiation for Cisplatin-Ineligible, Previously Untreated, Locally Advanced Head and Neck Cancer

This early-phase trial tests the safety and side effects of a tolinapant given together with radiation therapy in treating patients with head and neck cancer for which the patient has not received treatment in the past (previously untreated), has spread to nearby tissue or lymph nodes (locally advanced) and cannot receive cisplatin (cisplatin-ineligible). Tolinapant may stop the growth of tumor cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth. Radiation therapy uses high energy x-rays to kill tumor cells and shrink tumors. Giving tolinapant and radiation therapy may kill more tumor cells.