This technology utilizes an ethanol extract of Rehmannia glutinosa root as an active ingredient in pharmaceutical compositions, functional foods, and anti-cancer supplements for the prevention and treatment of cachexia and muscle loss. The composition works primarily by lowering levels of the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α.
Cachexia is a syndrome associated with chronic diseases such as cancer, tuberculosis, and AIDS, characterized by anorexia, weight loss, and muscle wasting. It affects over half of patients with gastrointestinal or lung cancer, reducing both quality of life and response to chemotherapy. Steroids used for treatment have short-lived effects and are limited to short-term use due to side effects like fluid retention and insulin resistance, while progesterone agents primarily increase fat rather than muscle and carry risks of thromboembolism and edema.
This technology uses Rehmannia glutinosa extract, compliant with the Korean Pharmacopoeia, to lower inflammatory cytokines and improve symptoms including loss of appetite, weight loss, fatigue, inflammation, muscle loss, and hematopoietic toxicity. It targets cachexia caused by both cancer itself and chemotherapy. Applicable as an adjuvant for patients undergoing chemotherapy, functional food for patient nutrition, and sarcopenia management for the elderly, it helps maintain the strength and muscle mass necessary to complete cancer treatment while reducing the burden of hematopoietic side effects like bone marrow suppression.
This invention was developed with support from the Ministry of Science and ICT for research on the efficacy and safety of improving cancer cachexia.
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