Preventing nerve damage from chemotherapy in colorectal cancer patients

Prevention of Oxaliplatin-induced Peripheral Neuropathy - a Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Vejle Hospital · NCT05404230

This study is testing if high doses of omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent nerve damage in colorectal cancer patients who are getting chemotherapy.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorVejle Hospital Academic / other
Drugs / interventionschemotherapy
Locations1 site (Vejle)
Trial IDNCT05404230 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of high doses of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on nerve damage in patients receiving oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy after surgery for colorectal cancer. The primary goal is to determine if n-3 PUFAs can reduce the incidence and severity of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) eight months post-treatment. Additionally, the study will assess the impact of n-3 PUFAs on nutritional status, cognition, and mental health, while exploring inflammatory mechanisms and biomarkers related to CIPN through skin biopsies and blood samples.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are patients with histologically confirmed colorectal cancer who are scheduled to receive oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with pre-existing neurological disorders or those who have previously received neurotoxic chemotherapy may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce nerve damage and improve the quality of life for patients undergoing chemotherapy for colorectal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of PUFAs in this context is relatively novel, previous studies have shown potential benefits of fatty acids in managing neuropathy, suggesting a promising avenue for further exploration.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Histopathologically verified adenocarcinoma of the colon or rectum and planned standard adjuvant treatment with capecitabine in combination with oxaliplatin.
* ECOG performance status 0-2 (measurement of a patient's function in terms of self-care, daily activity and physical ability.
* Written and orally informed informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to speak, read, and understand Danish.
* Previous treatment with neurotoxic chemotherapy.
* Neurological (including neuropathy) or psychiatric disorders, diabetes or other significant medical conditions.
* Alcohol or drug abuse.
* Sensory disturbances in the feet
* Spinal stenosis.
* Vascular disease (Fontaine grade II or more).
* Known allergy to fish, fish oil or corn oil
* Fertile patients not willing to use effective methods of contraception during treatment or abstinence.
* Daily intake of oil supplements and not willing to stop during the trial period.
* Lack of consent to skin biopsy

Where this trial is running

Vejle

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Peripheral NeuropathyColorectal Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.