Paclitaxel Albumin-Stabilized Nanoparticle Formulation and Carboplatin Followed By Chemoradiation in Treating Patients With Recurrent Head and Neck Cancer

This phase I trial studies the side effects and best dose of paclitaxel albumin-stabilized nanoparticle formulation when given together with carboplatin followed by chemoradiation in treating patients with recurrent head and neck cancer. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as paclitaxel albumin-stabilized nanoparticle formulation, carboplatin, fluorouracil, and hydroxyurea, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays to kill tumor cells. Giving paclitaxel albumin-stabilized nanoparticle formulation followed by chemoradiation therapy may be an effective treatment for head and neck cancer.