Reduction of chemotherapy-induced side-effects by parenteral glutamine supplementation in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer

Eur J Cancer. 1999 Feb;35(2):202-7. doi: 10.1016/s0959-8049(98)00389-x.

Abstract

In animal studies, glutamine (Gln) reduces chemotherapy-associated mucositis and mucosal atrophy. Therefore, this study examined the protective effects of a parenteral Gln supplementation in patients with metastatic colorectal carcinoma receiving 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)/calcium-folinate (CF) chemotherapy. In a prospective study, a total of 24 patients underwent three courses of 5-FU/CF chemotherapy and were randomised with (n = 12) or without (n = 12) glycyl-L-glutamine. Effects on gastrointestinal mucosa were assessed by endoscopic examinations and histomorphometric measurements. Clinical side-effects were documented according to the World Health Organisation grading. In the Gln group, a significant reduction in mucositis and ulcerations of the gastric (P < 0.01) and duodenal mucosa (P < 0.05) was documented after the third course of chemotherapy. In the same group, the villus height/crypt depth ratio was significantly higher after therapy than in the unsupplemented group (1st course P < 0.01; 3rd course P < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences in the incidence and severity of clinical side-effects. The results suggest that parenteral Gln supplementation protects the gastrointestinal mucosa against 5-FU/CF chemotherapy-induced damage.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / adverse effects*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Female
  • Fluorouracil / administration & dosage
  • Fluorouracil / adverse effects
  • Glutamine / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Infusions, Parenteral
  • Intestinal Mucosa / drug effects*
  • Leucovorin / administration & dosage
  • Leucovorin / adverse effects
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prospective Studies

Substances

  • Glutamine
  • Leucovorin
  • Fluorouracil