Could an ALS drug clear the fog of chemo brain?
NCT ID NCT06580002
First seen Jul 14, 2026 · Last updated Jul 15, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tests whether riluzole, a drug already used for ALS, can help cancer survivors who struggle with memory, focus, and mental clarity after treatment — a condition called cancer-related cognitive impairment. Researchers will measure changes in a brain protein called BDNF and track thinking skills over time. The trial includes people with various cancers who completed treatment recently or had whole-brain radiation.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- a drug called riluzole, which is typically used for ALS, being repurposed to potentially boost brain function
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a new way to treat 'chemo brain' — the mental fog many cancer survivors experience after treatment.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early pilot study, so results may not be conclusive. Riluzole can cause side effects like liver issues or drowsiness, and it may not improve thinking at all.
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
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Locations
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Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Irvine
RECRUITINGOrange, California, 92868, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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