Chi, K.H., Chiou, T.J., Li, C.P., Chen, S.Y., & Chao, Y. (2014). MS-20, A chemotherapeutical adjuvant, reduces chemo-associated fatigue and appetite loss in cancer patients. Nutrition and Cancer, 66, 1211–1219.
To examine the effects of MS-20, a fermented soybean extract, on quality of life, fatigue, and appetite for patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy (Immunologic and antioxidant profiles were also examined.)
MS 20 was taken orally on an empty stomach at a dose of 5 mL in the morning and 3 mL in the afternoon diluted in 100 mL of warm water. Patients were randomly assigned to receive MS 20 during either the first or second chemotherapy cycle after a one to two-week washout period. The study duration was eight weeks. Patients were evaluated at weekly office visits.
Randomized, unblended, crossover trial
Physical functioning scores were significantly better during treatment with MS 20 (p = .023). VAS scores for fatigue and appetite loss improved significantly while taking MS 20 (p < .001); however, fatigue and appetite loss scales on the EORTC questionnaire showed no significant difference between study conditions. There were no measurable effects on immunological parameters examined in the study.
Findings were mixed regarding the effect of MS 20 on fatigue and appetite loss.
This study provides some mixed findings regarding the effect of MS 20, a fermented soybean extract, on fatigue and anorexia in patients during chemotherapy.