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Is there a role for melatonin in supportive care?
1U.O. di Oncologia Medica e Radioterapia, Ospedale S. Gerardo dei Tintori, 20052 Monza (MI), Italy. oncologia@genie.it
Summary
Melatonin (MLT) shows antitumor activity by inhibiting cancer growth and boosting immunity. Clinical studies indicate MLT improves survival and reduces side effects in cancer patients, supporting its use in oncology.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Melatonin (MLT), a pineal gland hormone, exhibits physiological antitumor activity.
- MLT mechanisms include antiproliferative, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-angiogenic effects.
- MLT may offer palliative benefits, including anticachectic, anti-asthenic, and thrombopoietic activities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the therapeutic properties of melatonin in human neoplasms.
- To evaluate MLT's effects in advanced solid tumors receiving supportive care.
- To assess MLT's influence on chemotherapy efficacy and toxicity in metastatic cancer.
Main Methods:
- Two clinical studies were conducted: 1,440 patients with untreatable advanced solid tumors and 200 metastatic patients.
- Patients received either supportive care alone or supportive care plus oral MLT (20 mg/day).
- Chemotherapy-resistant patients were randomized to chemotherapy alone or chemotherapy plus MLT.
Main Results:
- MLT treatment significantly reduced cachexia, asthenia, thrombocytopenia, and lymphocytopenia.
- Patients receiving MLT showed significantly higher disease stabilization and 1-year survival rates.
- MLT improved tumor response rates and decreased chemotherapy-induced toxicity (asthenia, thrombocytopenia, stomatitis, cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity).
Conclusions:
- Melatonin (MLT) can be successfully administered in medical oncology.
- MLT is beneficial for supportive care in advanced cancer patients.
- MLT aids in preventing chemotherapy-induced toxicity.