This is an overview of CAM treatments that have been evaluated by CAM Cancer for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). The CAM treatments have been categorized according to the currently available level of evidence. Click on the different categories to view an assessment of these treatments. Please note that this is not a list of recommended treatments and does not suggest that these treatments are safe or effective.
At the time of assessment, the available evidence did not suggest positive effects for any of the treatments evaluated by CAM Cancer for CIPN.
L-Carnitine
Efficacy
Few data are available on the effect of L-carnitine in the management of CIPN. One RCT (n=239) in taxane-based chemotherapies demonstrated significantly improved outcomes for the ALC group compared with placebo. In an RCT (n=150), of non-taxane-based chemotherapy, ALE appeared to reduce the severity of CIPN.
Safety
Generally, it is well tolerated and has been safely used in clinical trials at appropriate doses. Interactions with thyroid medications have been reported.
Read the full version of the L-carnitine summary.
Reflexology
Efficacy
Few data are available on the effect of reflexology for CIPN. One RCT (n=92) found that reflexology improved sensory, motor, and autonomic functions.
Safety
Generally considered safe when administered by a qualified practitioner.
Read the full version of the Reflexology summary.
Reiki
Efficacy
Few data are available for the effect of reiki on CIPN. One small RCT (n=26) found no significant difference between the education-only control and the group treated with reiki.
Safety
Generally considered safe when administered by a qualified practitioner.
Read the full version of the Reiki i summary.
L-Carnitine
Efficacy
Prevention of CIPN: Two RCTs investigating taxane-based chemotherapies (n=437, n=160) and one RCT examining non-taxane-based chemotherapies (sagopilone, n=150) demonstrated that acetyl-L-carnitine (ALE) had no prophylactic effect on CIPN. Moreover, the largest RCT (n=437) reports that prophylactic therapy with ALE may increase the risk of CIPN and its persistence.
Safety
Generally, it is well tolerated and has been safely used in clinical trials at appropriate doses. Interactions with thyroid medications have been reported.
Read the full version of the L-carnitine summary.