Taking Glutamine for Cancer Treatment Side Effects

Glutamine is an amino acid that provides the major source of energy for the cells of the intestinal tract. Cancer patients may take glutamine as a supplement to treat mucositis and diarrhea, common side effects of some chemotherapies and radiation therapy to the neck. Glutamine supplements also can help protect healthy tissue.

How is it Used?

Glutamine is available in 500- to 1000-milligram tablets or capsules, and in a powder form that can be dissolved in water. Powdered glutamine is typically the form of choice for patients being treated for cancer as it is easy to take in water or fruit juice.

In one study, cancer patients took glutamine for 15 consecutive days, starting 5 days before the first day of chemotherapy, to see if glutamine reduced diarrhea. They took 6 grams dissolved in water 3 times per day for a total of 18 grams of glutamine per day. To treat mucositis from chemotherapy, oral glutamine swishes have been used starting on the first day of chemotherapy and continuing until symptoms improve. This treatment involved thoroughly swishing and then swallowing 4 grams of glutamine dissolved in 20 milliliters of cherry-flavored water every 4 hours around the clock.

Does it Work?

Studies of glutamine's effect on mucositis or diarrhea, while promising, are inconclusive. Other conventional treatment options are available for these conditions. Work with the health care team to find out what will work best. If the patient is trying glutamine to address these problems, be sure that they let their health care team know.

Is it Safe?

Glutamine is relatively safe in doses of up to 40 grams per day. Studies have shown that glutamine supplementation does not stimulate tumor growth or worsen a person's condition. Glutamine may interact with some medications or cause problems in people with certain health conditions. Also, some amino acid supplements may interfere with the effectiveness of the chemotherapy drug asparaginase. Patients should check with their doctor before taking glutamine or any other amino acid supplement.

Practitioner Qualifications

For information about glutamine, consult with a nutritionist who is a registered dietitian. Licensing is shown by the letters LD after the name, which stands for licensed dietitian. Many registered dietitians specialize in nutrition for people with cancer, though not all are trained in complementary care.

Cost in Time and Money

Glutamine powder is relatively expensive. A typical price is $20 to $40 for 300 to 400 grams of glutamine powder.