A Study of Herbal Supplements in Cancer Survivors With Chronic Constipation

Full Title

Herbal Formula Ma-Zi-Ren-Wan (MZRW) on Bowel Movement Function and Gut Microbiome among Cancer Survivors with Constipation: A Double-blinded Randomized Controlled Trial (RELIEVE)

Purpose

Researchers want to see if the herbal supplement Ma-Zi-Ren-Wan (MZRW) helps relieve chronic constipation in survivors of cancer. They will also see how MZRW affects the gut microbiome.

The gut microbiome is a diverse community of microorganisms living in the digestive system. They are essential for digestion and immune function.

MZRW is a tablet that is taken orally (by mouth). If you take part in this study, you will be randomly assigned to take MZRW or a placebo (inactive pill) for 2 weeks.

Who Can Join

To join this study, there are a few conditions. You must:

• Have chronic constipation.
• Have finished active cancer treatment (such as surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy) at least 1 month before entering the study.
• Be able to walk and do routine activities for more than half the time you are awake.
• Be age 18 or older.

Contact

For more information or to see if you can join this study, please call Dr. Jun Mao’s research team at 646-608-8555 or email aboutherbs@mskcc.org.