Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lycopene, a carotenoid found primarily in tomatoes, has been investigated for its potential role in cancer prevention and as a supportive agent during cancer treatment, particularly with regard to reducing treatment side effects. The scientific evidence supporting the use of lycopene for reducing side effects in cancer treatment is limited and somewhat preliminary, thus meriting a modest evidence rating.

Several small clinical and preclinical studies suggest that lycopene possesses antioxidant properties, which may help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation associated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy. For example, some studies have reported that lycopene supplementation may reduce oral mucositis in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy for head and neck cancer. There is also limited evidence suggesting a potential for lycopene to reduce chemotherapy-induced nephrotoxicity and cardiotoxicity, although these findings are not consistent across all research.

Importantly, most studies evaluating lycopene for these uses are small, of short duration, or lack rigorous controls. There are no large-scale, definitive randomized controlled trials demonstrating that lycopene supplementation significantly reduces the side effects of cancer treatment. As such, while the biological rationale and some early data are promising, lycopene should not be considered a proven adjunct for this purpose. Patients considering lycopene supplementation during cancer therapy should consult with their healthcare provider, as interactions with certain treatments are possible.

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