Could a simple supplement protect your gut during radiation?

NCT ID NCT04700527

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether taking a short chain fatty acid supplement can reduce gut-related side effects in people receiving radiation therapy for cancers in the abdomen or pelvis. About 122 adults will be randomly assigned to receive either the supplement or a placebo. The goal is to see if this low-cost approach can improve quality of life during treatment.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Short chain fatty acid (sodium butyrate and sodium propionate) supplement
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a simple, low-cost way to reduce gut-related side effects from radiation therapy, making treatment more tolerable.
What could go wrong: This is an early-phase trial with only 122 participants, so results may not be conclusive. The supplement might not reduce side effects better than a placebo.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

digestive system cancer digestive system neoplasm female reproductive organ cancer malignant urinary system neoplasm radiation injury

As listed by the trial registrant

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

RADIATION TOXICITY TOXICITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Flora Danquah
RECRUITING

Chapel Hill, North Carolina, 27599, United States

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