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.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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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
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Study contacts
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Contact
Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine
RECRUITINGOrange, California, 92868, United States
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