RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07091084

A Study of Herbal Supplements in Cancer Survivors With Constipation

Herbal Formula Ma-Zi-Ren-Wan (MZRW) on Bowel Movement Function and Gut Microbiome Among Cancer Survivors With Constipation: A Double-blinded Randomized Controlled Trial (RELIEVE)

Sponsor

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Enrollment

70 participants

Start Date

Jul 15, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Cancer Constipation Functional Constipation

Summary

The purpose of this study is to find out whether MZRW is an effective treatment for constipation in cancer survivors. The researchers will compare MZRW with placebo, a pill that looks like MZRW and is given in the same way, but contains no medication. The researchers will also study the effect MZRW has on the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome is a diverse community of microorganisms living in the digestive system, essential for digestion and immune function.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study tests whether herbal supplements can help relieve constipation in cancer survivors — a common and distressing side effect of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. **You may be eligible if...** - You are 18 or older - You have a cancer diagnosis (any type or stage) - You have completed your main cancer treatment (surgery, chemo, immunotherapy, or radiation) at least one month ago (patients on stable hormone or targeted therapies may still qualify) - You have a Karnofsky performance score of 60 or higher (able to care for yourself) - You experience chronic constipation **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You are currently receiving active chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy - You have a bowel obstruction or other condition causing constipation - You have severe allergies to the herbal ingredients being tested - You are pregnant or breastfeeding Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

DIETARY_SUPPLEMENTMZRW

MZRW herbal formula consists of a 7:1 extract of Huo Ma Ren \[Hemp Seed 33.4%\]; Da Huang (Sheng) \[Rhubarb (Fresh) 22.2%\]; Bai Shao \[Peony (White) 11.1%\]; Zhi Shi \[Aurantium Immaturus 11.1%\]; Hou Po \[Magnolia Bark 11.1%\]; and Xing Ren \[Apricot Kernel 11.1%\] - Taken for 2 weeks intervention and 2 weeks follow-up