Herbal Supplements for Constipation
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if the herbal supplement MZRW can effectively treat constipation in cancer survivors. Participants will receive either MZRW or a placebo (a pill resembling MZRW but without active ingredients) for two weeks. The researchers will also explore MZRW's effects on the gut microbiome, which is crucial for digestion and immune health. Suitable candidates for this trial are cancer survivors who frequently experience constipation symptoms, such as straining or having fewer than three bowel movements per week, and have completed their cancer treatments at least a month ago. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity for patients to contribute to understanding new treatment options for post-cancer constipation.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on opioid antagonists for constipation, you are required to continue them.
Is there any evidence suggesting that MZRW is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that MZRW is generally safe for use. In a recent study, most participants tolerated MZRW well, with no serious side effects. Some experienced mild issues like stomach pain, but these were not severe. Another study involving cancer patients with constipation found that MZRW was well-tolerated and helped increase bowel movement frequency. Overall, this evidence suggests that MZRW is a safe option for treating constipation.12345
Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for constipation?
Unlike the standard treatments for constipation, which typically include fiber supplements, laxatives, and stool softeners, MZRW is an herbal supplement that offers a natural alternative. Researchers are excited about MZRW because it is derived from traditional herbal medicine, which uses natural ingredients that could provide relief without the harsh side effects often associated with chemical laxatives. Additionally, MZRW promises a potentially faster onset of action, showing results in just two weeks, which could be beneficial for those seeking quicker relief. This combination of a natural approach and rapid effectiveness makes MZRW a promising candidate in the realm of constipation treatments.
What evidence suggests that MZRW might be an effective treatment for constipation?
Research has shown that MZRW, a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, may help treat constipation. In a study with 291 patients who had functional constipation, MZRW increased the number of complete bowel movements each week. Another study found that 59.3% of patients experienced overall improvement in their constipation symptoms with MZRW, compared to 28.6% in the placebo group. Participants in this trial will receive either MZRW or a placebo for 2 weeks. The treatment did not cause major side effects, indicating it was well-tolerated. These findings suggest that MZRW could be a helpful option for managing constipation, even for cancer survivors.45678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jun Mao, MD, MSCE
Principal Investigator
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for cancer survivors who are experiencing constipation. Participants should be willing to take a herbal supplement or placebo and have their gut microbiome studied. Specific inclusion and exclusion criteria details were not provided.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either MZRW or placebo for 2 weeks to evaluate the effect on spontaneous bowel movements and gut microbiome
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- MZRW
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor