Cachexia is a major problem with cancer patients.
The European Palliative Care Research Collaborative (EPCRC) defines cancer-related cachexia thus:
A multi-factorial syndrome defined by an ongoing loss of skeletal muscle mass (with or without loss of fat mass) that cannot be reversed by conventional nutritional support and leads to progressive functional impairment. The pathophysiology is characterised by a negative protein and energy balance driven by a variable combination of reduced food intake and abnormal metabolism.
Cancer cachexia impairs quality of life and response to therapy, which increases morbidity and mortality of cancer patients. It is seen in 50% of cancer patients and accounts for at least 20% of deaths.
Reduced appetite and decreased food consumption result from psychological reasons, oncological treatments, the tumour itself, reduced physical activity and energy consumption.
There are a few substances which increase appetite and can be used to treat weight loss;
- EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid). Extra EPA was given to 20 pancreatic cancer patients, this stopped their weight loss and they increased 1kg/month average in weight
- Vitamin B1 and B6
- Zinc and selenium
- Chlorella
- Melatonin(20mg per day) leads to a decrease in TNF, which is a cachectin inducing substance
- Hydrazine sulfateprevents the loss of proteins from the body and thus prevents reduction in muscle mass and weight loss. It acts directly on tumour cells, reduces pain and improves patients’ general feeling of well-being. Hydrazine sulfate is an inorganic, safe and nontoxic substance if used at therapeutic levels. Sedatives, barbiturates and alcohol should be avoided. It also acts to reduce chemotherapy and radiation side-effects, and leads to tumour remission. The normal dosage is 600mg pills three times per day
- Marijuana pills, vape and oils improve appetite and contribute to weight gain.