Can steroids reverse nerve damage from cancer radiation?

NCT ID NCT04151082

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests high-dose steroids (methylprednisolone or prednisone) in 35 head and neck cancer survivors who have nerve damage from past radiation. The goal is to find the best dose that improves symptoms like tongue weakness while limiting side effects. Participants must be at least two years past radiation and have no active cancer.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Methylprednisolone or Prednisone (steroids)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a treatment that eases nerve symptoms like tongue weakness after radiation for head and neck cancer.
What could go wrong: This is an early, small trial (35 people) testing dose and safety. Steroids have side effects, and it's not yet known if they will meaningfully improve nerve function.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

cranial nerve neuropathy head and neck cancer head and neck carcinoma oropharyngeal carcinoma oropharynx cancer

As listed by the trial registrant

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

CRANIAL NERVE DISORDER HEAD AND NECK CARCINOMA OROPHARYNGEAL CARCINOMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

M D Anderson Cancer Center
RECRUITING

Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

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