Antioxidants in cancer therapy; their actions and interactions with oncologic therapies

Altern Med Rev. 1999 Oct;4(5):304-29.

Abstract

There is a concern that antioxidants might reduce oxidizing free radicals created by radiotherapy and some forms of chemotherapy, and thereby decrease the effectiveness of the therapy. The question has arisen whether concurrent administration of oral antioxidants is contraindicated during cancer therapeutics. Evidence reviewed here demonstrates exogenous antioxidants alone produce beneficial effects in various cancers, and except for a few specific cases, animal and human studies demonstrate no reduction of efficacy of chemotherapy or radiation when given with antioxidants. In fact, considerable data exists showing increased effectiveness of many cancer therapeutic agents, as well as a decrease in adverse effects, when given concurrently with antioxidants.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Drug Interactions
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Neoplasms / radiotherapy

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Antioxidants