Could a ketone drink help fight colorectal cancer? a trial investigates
NCT ID NCT05338307
First seen Aug 12, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study is testing whether a ketone supplement called beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is safe and tolerable for people scheduled for a colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy as part of their standard care. Participants will take a drink containing R-1,3-butanediol three times daily for a short period. The main goals are to see if people can stick with the supplement and if it raises BHB levels in the blood, which could inform future research on its potential role in colorectal cancer.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- R-1,3-Butanediol (a ketone supplement)
- What this could lead to
- If this supplement is well-tolerated and raises blood ketone levels, it could pave the way for larger studies exploring whether ketones might influence colorectal cancer development or progression.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small, early feasibility study, not designed to test whether the supplement affects cancer itself. Side effects or poor tolerance could limit its use, and results may not apply to broader populations.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Abramson Cancer Center of the University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States
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