Can a simple supplement tame inflammation before cancer surgery?

NCT ID NCT07675421

First seen Jun 30, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a dietary supplement called HMB (beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate) can lower inflammation and improve recovery in people with head and neck cancer who are about to have surgery. Participants take either HMB or a placebo daily for 30 days before their operation. Researchers measure inflammatory markers in the blood and track muscle strength and postoperative outcomes to see if HMB makes a difference.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB)

What this could lead to

If HMB reduces inflammation and improves muscle strength before surgery, it could help head and neck cancer patients recover better after tumor removal.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with only 66 participants, so results may not apply to all patients. HMB is a supplement and may not produce significant clinical benefits.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

head and neck cancer head and neck carcinoma Head and Neck Neoplasms Inflammation Postoperative Complications

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais

    RECRUITING

    Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 30130-100, Brazil

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••