AZD2281 and Irinotecan in Treating Patients With Locally Advanced or Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

RATIONALE: AZD2281 may stop the growth of tumor cells by blocking some of the enzymes needed for cell growth. Drugs used in chemotherapy, such as irinotecan, work in different ways to stop the growth of tumor cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Giving AZD2281 together with irinotecan may kill more tumor cells.
PURPOSE: This phase I trial is studying the side effects and best dose of AZD2281 and irinotecan in treating patients with locally advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer.