Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Glutamine is an amino acid that has been studied as a supportive therapy during cancer treatment, especially for reducing side effects such as mucositis (painful inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract), neuropathy, and diarrhea—primarily in patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation. Several clinical trials have investigated its efficacy, with mixed results. Some studies suggest that oral glutamine supplementation may help reduce the severity and duration of mucositis in patients undergoing high-dose chemotherapy, particularly for hematologic malignancies. For example, randomized controlled trials have shown a decrease in mucositis severity in some patient populations, leading to improved nutritional status and quality of life. However, other studies have failed to demonstrate significant benefits, and the methodological quality of some trials has been questioned. Glutamine’s mechanism of action is thought to be related to its role as a primary fuel source for enterocytes and its contribution to maintaining intestinal barrier function. Despite some positive findings, major cancer organizations such as the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) do not universally recommend glutamine for routine use in all cancer patients due to inconsistent evidence and concerns about potential tumor growth stimulation, as some cancer cells utilize glutamine for proliferation. In summary, there is modest scientific evidence supporting glutamine’s use for specific side effects in limited cancer populations, but it is not broadly endorsed due to variable results and unresolved safety concerns.

More about Glutamine
More about Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)

Other ingredients used for Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)

Other health conditions supported by Glutamine

Products containing Glutamine