Could a common ALS drug prevent chemotherapy brain fog?

NCT ID NCT07447050

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This phase 2 trial tests whether riluzole, a drug already approved for ALS, can prevent the cognitive problems (often called 'chemo brain') that many cancer patients face during chemotherapy. The study will enroll 24 adults with various cancers who are about to start chemotherapy. Half will receive riluzole and half a placebo, and researchers will track changes in a blood marker linked to brain health, as well as thinking and memory scores.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Riluzole

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a way to prevent the mental fog many cancer patients experience during chemotherapy.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-stage pilot study with only 24 participants. The main goal is to measure a blood marker, not cognitive function directly, so even if that marker changes, it may not translate to clearer thinking.

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.

breast cancer breast neoplasm colorectal cancer colorectal neoplasm female reproductive organ cancer gastric cancer gastric neoplasm head and neck cancer Head and Neck Neoplasms liver cancer Liver Neoplasms lung cancer lung neoplasm malignant urinary system neoplasm ovarian cancer sarcoma Urogenital Neoplasms

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

Locations

  • Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine

    RECRUITING

    Orange, California, 92868, United States