Nutraceuticals for Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

A wide range of neurologic complications, including central neurotoxicity conditions and peripheral neurotoxicity, are associated with antineoplastic drug regimens. Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is one of the most common and severe cancer treatment-related adverse effect, as well as the most diffuse type of neurotoxicity, because about one third of all patients who undergo chemotherapy may experience this side effect. CIPN can negatively impact the long-term quality of life of cancer survivors, and can lead to dose reduction of the chemotherapy agent, or possible cessation of treatment. Unfortunately, although several agents and protocols have been proposed, no prophylactic strategies have proven useful yet. Therefore, new alternative therapies have been considered for CIPN prevention. In this chapter, the authors analyze the potential applications of nutrients, dietary supplements and herbal products, such as single herbs, the Kampo medicine goshajinkigan and other herbal combinations, for CIPN prevention.