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Improvement of Depression in Terminal Cancer Patients
Sponsor: National Taiwan University Hospital
Summary
This study investigates the potential of the water extract of Gastrodia elata Blume (WGE) to alleviate depressive symptoms in terminal cancer patients. In Taiwan, cancer accounts for 25-30% of annual deaths, with terminal patients often experiencing physical pain and psychological distress, including depression. Addressing both physical and psychological challenges is vital in palliative care. Gastrodia elata Blume is a traditional dietary medicine known for its antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neurotransmitter-regulating, and neuroprotective properties. This trial will recruit 60 hospice patients, randomly divided into two groups: a control group and a WGE experimental group. Assessments will include: 1. General examinations (e.g., height, weight, blood pressure). 2. Non-invasive autonomic nervous system analyses. 3. Patient-reported measures: Quality of Life Scale (EORTC QLQ-C30), Pain Score, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The study hypothesizes that WGE can: 1. Alleviate depressive symptoms. 2. Enhance autonomic nervous system function. 3. Improve the quality of life for terminal cancer patients. This research aims to demonstrate the therapeutic potential of WGE, improving psychological and physiological outcomes for hospice patients.
Official title: Improvement of Depression in Terminal Cancer Patients (IDTCP)
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
20 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
60
Start Date
2025-01-14
Completion Date
2025-12-31
Last Updated
2025-01-21
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Gastrodia elata Blume water extract
Subjects in the experimental group will consume Gastrodia elata Blume water extract daily. The extract is prepared from dried Gastrodia elata Blume, which is processed into a water-soluble form. This dosage is administered orally for a duration of a week. The intervention is designed to evaluate the potential effects of Gastrodia elata Blume on alleviating depressive symptoms, improving autonomic nervous system function, and enhancing overall quality of life in terminal cancer patients.