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.
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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
-
School of Medicine, Federal University of Minas Gerais
RECRUITINGBelo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, 30130-100, Brazil
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