Could a 48-Hour fast tame Chemotherapy's worst side effects?

NCT ID NCT06536881

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 21, 2026 · Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Summary

This trial tests whether water-only fasting for 24 to 48 hours around each chemotherapy session can help people with early-stage breast cancer tolerate treatment better. Participants will fast during four cycles of standard chemotherapy, either before or after surgery. The study focuses on whether patients can stick to the fasting schedule and whether it reduces severe side effects and treatment delays.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: water-only fasting
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to reduce severe side effects and improve chemotherapy completion for breast cancer patients.
What could go wrong: This is a small feasibility study, so results may not apply broadly. Fasting for up to 48 hours may be difficult to adhere to and could carry risks like dehydration or nutrient deficiencies.

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.

breast cancer breast neoplasm

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

BREAST CANCER EARLY-STAGE BREAST CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Sibley Memorial Hospital
RECRUITING

Washington D.C., District of Columbia, 20016, United States

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