Photo credit: www.sciencedaily.com
Novel Limonene-Lipid Formulation Offers Hope for Dry Mouth Relief in Cancer Patients
A natural citrus oil derived from oranges, lemons, and limes has demonstrated significant promise in alleviating dry mouth symptoms. Recent studies indicate that when this citrus oil is combined with an innovative lipid formulation, it may provide effective relief with minimal side effects.
This groundbreaking formulation, a collaborative effort between the University of South Australia and Stanford University Medical School, integrates limonene—an essential oil extracted from citrus fruits—with a lipid-based delivery system aimed at treating xerostomia, commonly linked to radiation therapy in cancer treatments.
Laboratory tests reveal that the new blend boasts a remarkable 180-fold increase in solubility compared to pure limonene, alongside a staggering 4000% increase in relative bioavailability during pre-clinical trials.
Dry mouth is the most frequently reported consequence of radiotherapy for head and neck cancers, impacting approximately 70% of patients due to damage inflicted on salivary glands. This condition can lead to challenges in speaking and swallowing, significantly impairing overall quality of life.
Despite limonene’s protective qualities on saliva production during radiation therapy, its poor solubility necessitates high doses which can provoke digestive issues, including stomach discomfort and unpleasant gastrointestinal reactions such as ‘citrus burps’.
Professor Clive Prestidge, the lead investigator, explains that the innovative limonene-lipid combination acts as a ‘super-solubilising’ treatment. This formulation aims to relieve dry mouth symptoms effectively at lower doses and without the associated side effects that typically accompany higher concentrations of limonene.
“The benefits of limonene are widely recognized,” Prof Prestidge states. “It serves as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mood enhancer, while also supporting digestion and gut function. However, its volatility and limited solubility have hindered its advancement as an oral therapy in the past.”
“Because limonene is an oil, it tends to form a layer on top of stomach contents, which can lead to considerable stomach discomfort,” he adds. “Our new formulation merges limonene with healthy lipids, creating a compound that the body can absorb more readily, minimizing uncomfortable side effects.”
Co-researcher Dr. Leah Wright emphasizes the potential impact of this development on cancer patients and others afflicted by dry mouth. “Individuals undergoing radiotherapy, along with those facing other medical treatments, commonly experience dry mouth, which can hinder swallowing and lead to serious and sometimes life-threatening complications,” she explains.
Although limonene can be consumed directly, it is often poorly tolerated, particularly by those experiencing dry mouth. Moreover, its inadequate absorption makes it difficult for the substance to reach the salivary glands, which are the intended target for treatment.
“This novel limonene-lipid formulation holds promise as an accessible and effective oral remedy for dry mouth. It aims to give cancer patients extended relief and comfort, improve oral health, and enhance their quality of life during challenging times,” Dr. Wright concludes.
Clinical trials for this innovative formulation are currently underway, with future updates regarding next steps anticipated soon.
Source
www.sciencedaily.com