Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Adsorbents, such as activated charcoal and certain oral adsorptive agents (e.g., diosmectite, AST-120), have been studied for their ability to ameliorate chemotherapy-induced side effects, particularly gastrointestinal toxicity like diarrhea. The scientific rationale is based on the adsorbent’s capacity to bind toxins, metabolites, or drugs in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing their local or systemic effects. For example, activated charcoal is known to adsorb various chemicals and drugs, limiting their absorption and toxicity; however, its use specifically for chemotherapy side effect mitigation is limited and not standard practice. A more relevant example is the use of the oral adsorbent AST-120 (kremezin) in Japan, which has been investigated for reducing uremic toxins and has seen exploratory use for managing side effects of certain cancer therapies. Some studies suggest these agents may help by adsorbing harmful metabolites or inflammatory mediators produced during chemotherapy, thus lessening mucositis or diarrhea. Clinical trials and animal studies have shown promising results in reducing the severity of gastrointestinal symptoms, though evidence is still emerging, and large-scale, high-quality trials are lacking. Overall, while the use of adsorbents to support chemotherapy is grounded in scientific theory and some clinical data, the evidence base is moderate (rated 3/5), and these agents are not universally accepted or recommended as standard supportive care. More robust clinical trials are needed to clarify their efficacy and optimal use.

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