A Phase III Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Study of Intravenous Calcium/Magnesium in Two Different Versions to Prevent Oxaliplatin-Induced Sensory Neurotoxicity

RATIONALE: Chemoprotective drugs, such as calcium gluconate and magnesium sulfate, may
prevent neurotoxicity caused by oxaliplatin. It is not yet known which administration
schedule of calcium gluconate and magnesium sulfate is more effective in preventing
neurotoxicity.

PURPOSE: This randomized phase III trial is studying different administration schedules of
calcium gluconate and magnesium sulfate and comparing how well they work in neurotoxicity in
patients with colon cancer or rectal cancer receiving oxaliplatin-based combination
chemotherapy.