Combinations of Antioxidants Given that many antioxidants have been shown to have anti-tumor properties, it is worth exploring their use in combination. A study in mice found co-administration of beta-carotene and alpha-tocopherol led to much greater tumor regression than either agent alone. The effect was synergistic, being much greater than the sum of the mild tumor inhibition of beta-carotene and alpha-tocopherol.174 Other studies have shown multivitamin supplements were associated with fewer recurrences of solid tumors after remission following standard oncologic therapies.20,21 A small double-blind trial of a mixture of antioxidants, including 600 mg vitamin E, 1 g vitamin C, and 200 mg NAC taken only during treatment, looked at the potential of this mixture to prevent cardiotoxicity during chemo- and radiotherapy. No patient taking the antioxidant mixture had a fall in ejection fraction greater than 10 percent. In patients taking placebo, four of six patients undergoing radiotherapy and two of seven patients treated with chemotherapy had an ejection fraction reduction of 10 percent or more. Treatment outcomes in patients taking antioxidants versus placebo were not discussed.175 An open trial of combination antioxidant treatment along with chemotherapy and radiation in patients with small-cell lung cancer had encouraging results. Patients taking the supplement, which contained at least 15,000 IU vitamin A, 10,000 IU beta-carotene, 300 IU alpha-tocopherol, 2 g vitamin C, and 800 mcg selenium, were able to tolerate chemotherapy and radiation well. Their two-year survival rate was greater than that of historical controls (>33% to <15%), with 44 percent still alive at the end of the study (mean survival time for survivors = 32 months). No side effects from nutritional treatment were noted.17 Hopefully these promising results will be followed up with larger and more well-controlled studies. Antioxidants in Cancer Therapy; Their Actions and Interactions With Oncologic Therapies Davis W. Lamson, MS, ND and Matthew S. Brignall, ND Alternative Medicine Reviews, 1999;4(5):304-329 Alternative Medicine Reviews, 1999;4(5):304-329 Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.