Lamotrigine
Lamotrigine is an anticonvulsant that inhibits the function of neuronal sodium channels, decreasing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters. Lamotrigine has been evaluated for the management of peripheral neuropathy and neuropathic pain. It is available as a tablet, extended release tablet, chewable tablet, and an orally dissolving tablet.
Lactulose
Lactulose, an osmotic laxative, contains poorly absorbed ions or molecules that create a local osmotic gradient within the intestinal lumen. Fluid and electrolytes are drawn osmotically from the surrounding tissue into the colon, which creates pressure-stimulating peristalsis. Adverse effects of lactulose include electrolyte abnormalities, diarrhea, abdominal bloating, flatulence, and colic.
Lactobacillus Lozenges
Oral lozenges containing Lactobacillus brevi were studied for effects to reduce oral mucositis in patients with cancer. This particular probiotic has anti-inflammatory properties.
KRN5500
KRN 5500 is a spicamycin derivative that has appeared to reduce nerve-injury-induced neuropathic pain in animal models. This substance was examined for its effect on pain in patients with cancer who had refractory neuropathic pain.
Konjac Glucomannan
Konjac glucomannan is produced from the root of the konjac plant, which is native to tropical areas in Asia. It is high in soluble fiber. This dietary supplement has been studied in patients with cancer for the prevention and management of constipation.
Kinesio Tape Bandage
Kinesio tape is a type of bandage for taping that allows longitudinal stretch, so is somewhat elastic, and is composed of cotton fibers and acrylic heat sensitive glue. Kinesio tape is waterproof and is worn for 1-3 days without removal. Kinesio tape has been used for sports application and was evaluated as an alternative to standard compression bandaging for lymphedema in patients with cancer.
Ketamine
Ketamine is a fast-acting, dissociative anesthetic that works by stopping external stimulation from being delivered to the brain from the nervous system. As such, it can give rise to a hallucinogenic state and distort perception. Ketamine is a schedule III drug in the United States. Ketamine is used as a general anesthetic and in pain management.
Kefir
Kefir is a natural probiotic produced from the fermentation of milk with kefir grains, which contain yeast and bacteria, similar to the bacteria found in yogurt. Kefir was studied in patients with cancer to assess its effects for various symptoms and impact on overall quality of life.
Iseganan
Iseganan is an analog of a peptide with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity under development for the prevention of oral mucositis from chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Irsogladine Maleate
Irsogladine maleate is a synthetic drug that has antiviral activity and appears to have some mucosal protective effects. Oral rinsing with dissolved irsogladine maleate was studied for its effect on oral mucositis.