Common drug may shield kidneys from chemo harm

NCT ID NCT05640817

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether pentoxifylline, a drug used for blood flow problems, can protect the kidneys from damage caused by cisplatin chemotherapy in head and neck cancer patients. 90 adults receiving cisplatin for the first time took part. Researchers measured kidney injury using standard tests and a specific marker called KIM-1.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

pentoxifylline

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple way to reduce kidney damage from cisplatin chemotherapy, helping patients complete their cancer treatment with fewer side effects.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed study without a phase designation, so results may not be definitive. Pentoxifylline may not provide meaningful protection for all patients, and its benefits need confirmation in larger trials.

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.

cisplatin toxicity head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Tanta Unuversity

    Tanta, 34518, Egypt