TDNet Discover

Background: Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with standard treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy being at the forefront of treatment despite adverse outcomes such as fatigue and peripheral neuropathy as long-term outcomes. Alternative adjunctive therapy has previously aimed at managing symptoms related to these treatments; intravenous (IV) ozone therapy is being explored to reduce these adverse outcomes. Purpose: This research sought to examine IV ozone therapy as an adjunctive therapeutic treatment to current standard cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, regarding its efficacy and impact on treatment-related side effects as well as overall patient outcomes. Methods: A literature search was conducted by 3 researchers using several medical databases: Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. Exclusion criteria included animal studies, existing comorbidities, and studies published more than 10 years ago. Researchers independently searched and reviewed the literature and progressed through the research by consensus. Each study was subjected to a quality analysis using the National Institute of Health quality assessment tools. Data extraction was then performed for each article using a data extraction tool. Inclusion criteria included full-text articles, RCTs, cohort studies, case series, and metaanalyses, all peer-reviewed. Results: The total number of studies included was 6. Evidence suggests that IV ozone therapy may improve quality of life and reduce adverse effects, such as peripheral neuropathy and fatigue, when used as an adjunctive treatment in oncological cases. A few studies have noted potential immune benefits; however, data on tumor response remain limited. v Conclusion: IV ozone therapy as an adjunctive treatment for patients undergoing standard oncological treatment shows promising support for reducing adverse outcomes and improving patients’ quality of life. Further research is needed to confirm its safety, standardized treatment use and dosage, effectiveness, and best use in clinical practice.