New Approaches in Traditional Chinese Medicine for Chemotherapy Side Effects

What are the treatment issues related to the side effects of cancer chemotherapy?

On June 12, 2004, according to the Apple Daily, the Department of Health commissioned the Housheng Tumor Center of Taichung Hospital, China Medical University, and the Guangtian Hospital Cancer Center to jointly research a new method using traditional Chinese herbal medicine to alleviate chemotherapy side effects.
The research results were announced on June 11, 2004, and they offered free treatment for three months to fifty eligible cancer patients.
Could you please provide information on how to apply? If I am unable to qualify, could you share relevant information so that my friends and family can seek treatment at their own expense? Please email me with the details; I would be very grateful!

Dai, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/06/14

Dr. Huang Yicheng reply Pharmacology

The formula used should be "Sha Shen Mai Dong Decoction," which originates from the Qing Dynasty work "Wen Bing Tiao Bian" by Wu Ju Tong.
The typical composition includes 9 grams of Bei Sha Shen, 9 grams of Mai Dong, 6 grams of Yu Zhu, 4.5 grams of Tian Hua Fen (Trichosanthes root), 4.5 grams of Sang Ye, 4.5 grams of Sheng Bian Dou, and 3 grams of Gan Cao.
Its functions are to clear and nourish the lungs and stomach, generate fluids, and moisten dryness.
It is indicated for conditions characterized by dryness injuring the lungs and stomach, fluid deficiency, dry cough with little phlegm, dry throat, thirst, heat in the chest, a red tongue with little coating, and a floating, thin, rapid pulse.

This plan aims to clinically evaluate the antioxidant levels and immune function regulation in cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy.
Preliminary findings suggest an increase in the number of immune cells and lymphocytes.
However, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatment for any disease must differentiate between cold, heat, deficiency, and excess to apply appropriate herbal remedies; this can also reduce side effects from Western treatments, such as symptoms affecting the oral cavity and lungs, for which formulas like Gan Lu Yin, Bai He Guo Jin Tang, and Sheng Mai Yin may be used.
For gastrointestinal symptoms, modifications of Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang and Ping Wei San may be applied.
Other symptoms related to the skin, large and small intestines, urinary system, brain, and nervous system have different formulas or herbs that can be utilized.
Therefore, it is essential for a TCM practitioner to differentiate and classify based on the patient's unique constitution, and self-medication is not advisable.

For further assistance, please contact the Housheng Oncology Center at Taichung Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan at 04-22294411, extension 3400 (or the Social Service Office at extensions 3370-3373).
The project leader is Dr.
Lai Yi Cheng, the director of the center, with outpatient hours on Monday and Friday afternoons and Tuesday mornings.
Sincerely, Pharmacist Huang Yi Cheng, Department of Pharmacy, Hualien Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.

Reply Date: 2004/06/14

More Info

The integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) into the management of chemotherapy side effects has gained attention in recent years, particularly as patients seek complementary therapies to alleviate the adverse effects of conventional cancer treatments. The study you referenced, conducted by the Taichung Hospital's Housheng Tumor Center, China Medical University, and Guangtian Hospital Cancer Center, highlights a significant initiative aimed at exploring the efficacy of TCM in mitigating these side effects.

The specific formula mentioned, Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used to nourish the lungs and stomach, clear heat, and generate fluids. Its components, including Bei Sha Shen (North American Ginseng), Mai Dong (Ophiopogon), and others, are known for their properties in moistening dryness and alleviating symptoms such as dry cough, thirst, and fatigue, which can be exacerbated by chemotherapy.

To apply for the free three-month treatment offered in the study, patients were advised to contact the Taichung Hospital Housheng Tumor Center directly. The contact number provided was 04-22294411, extension 3400, with additional options for social services at extensions 3370-3373. It is crucial for interested patients to inquire about eligibility criteria and the application process, as the study aimed to recruit a limited number of participants.

For those who may not qualify for the study but are interested in TCM treatments, it is essential to consult with a licensed TCM practitioner. They can provide personalized treatment plans based on individual health conditions and constitution. TCM is not a one-size-fits-all approach; it requires careful diagnosis and treatment tailored to the patient's specific symptoms and overall health status.

In addition to Sha Shen Mai Dong Tang, there are various other TCM formulations that can be considered for managing chemotherapy side effects. For instance, Gan Lu Yin is often used to alleviate symptoms related to dryness in the throat and mouth, while Bai He Guo Jin Tang can help with lung-related issues. For gastrointestinal symptoms, formulas like Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang or Ping Wei San may be beneficial. Each of these formulas addresses different aspects of the side effects experienced during chemotherapy, such as nausea, vomiting, and digestive discomfort.

It is also important to note that while TCM can provide supportive care, it should not replace conventional cancer treatments. Patients should always discuss any complementary therapies with their oncologists to ensure a coordinated approach to their care. This is particularly vital as some herbal remedies may interact with chemotherapy drugs, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing side effects.

In summary, the exploration of TCM for managing chemotherapy side effects represents a promising avenue for enhancing patient care. Patients interested in these approaches should seek guidance from qualified practitioners and maintain open communication with their healthcare teams to ensure safe and effective treatment plans.

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