Preventing oral mucositis in head and neck cancer patients
Official title: Prevention of Oral Mucositis in Subjects Undergoing Radiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer. A Randomized Clinical Trial.
Run by Catholic University of the Sacred Heart · NCT05853692 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests if a zinc spray can help prevent painful mouth sores in patients with head and neck cancer who are getting radiation treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 130 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Catholic University of the Sacred Heart Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Roma, Italy) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 10, 2022 |
| Main results expected | October 10, 2027 |
| Study ends | June 10, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | March 19, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05853692 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer who are receiving local radiotherapy and can self-apply the treatment.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with contraindications to any components of Gel X or those with neurological or psychiatric conditions affecting their ability to self-apply the treatment may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of Gel X, a zinc gluconate-based spray, in preventing oral mucositis in patients undergoing radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. It compares the incidence of oral mucositis in patients using Gel X to those using sodium bicarbonate. The study aims to demonstrate that Gel X not only reduces the occurrence of oral mucositis but also alleviates pain and accelerates healing if mucositis occurs. Patients will self-apply the treatment as part of their care regimen.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly reduce the incidence and severity of oral mucositis, improving the quality of life for head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using Gel X is novel, similar studies have shown that interventions targeting oral mucositis can be beneficial.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients with diagnosis of the following HNC: oral cavity, pharynx, unknown primary, salivary glands, undergoing local radiotherapy for curative purpose * Patients with diagnosis of HNC: oral cavity, pharynx, unknown primary, salivary glands, undergoing local radiotherapy as an adjuvant to surgical resection * Patients able self-apply the product. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with documented contraindication to any of the components of "Gel X" (there included eccipients): water, saccharin sodium, PVP, Taurine, Zinc Gluconate, PEG-40, Hydrogenated castor oil, Pullulan, Flavors * Patients with any neurological and psychiatric condition having an influence on the ability to self-apply the treatment * Patients participating to other clinical studies
Where it's running
-
Catholic University of the Sacred Hearth
Roma, Italy, Italy Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Carlo Lajolo, Prof.
- Email: carlo.lajolo@unicatt.it
- Phone: +393401004585
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Copaiba Mouthwash with Low-Level Laser Therapy to Prevent Mouth Sores After Stem Cell Transplant
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.