Synopsis

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

Cyclodextrins are cyclic oligosaccharides widely used in pharmaceutical formulations, including those for chemotherapy. Their primary role is as drug delivery enhancers: they form inclusion complexes with hydrophobic drugs, improving solubility, stability, and bioavailability. In chemotherapy, this can translate to more effective delivery of anticancer agents and potentially a reduction in side effects due to improved pharmacokinetics and targeted delivery. Several scientific studies have explored cyclodextrins’ ability to encapsulate chemotherapeutic drugs such as paclitaxel and doxorubicin, which are otherwise poorly soluble in water. By enhancing the solubility and stability of these agents, cyclodextrins may reduce the need for toxic solvents (e.g., Cremophor EL in paclitaxel formulations), which are often responsible for significant adverse reactions. Clinical and preclinical evidence suggests that cyclodextrin-based formulations can reduce hypersensitivity reactions and organ toxicity associated with standard formulations, although they do not eliminate all chemotherapy side effects. However, while the pharmaceutical benefits of cyclodextrins in chemotherapy are well established, their direct role in "treating" or "reducing side effects" is mainly a secondary benefit of improved drug delivery rather than a therapeutic action on side effects themselves. The overall evidence is moderate (rated 3/5), with ongoing research into optimizing cyclodextrin-drug complexes and fully understanding their long-term safety profile.

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