What is MZRW studying for constipation in cancer survivors?

MZRW is being studied to see if it can improve bowel movements in cancer survivors who have constipation. The trial also looks at how MZRW affects the gut microbiome, which plays a key role in digestion and immune health. This research is led by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to better understand potential treatments for constipation after cancer.

Who may be eligible for this constipation clinical trial?

Adults 18 years or older who have been diagnosed with any type of cancer and meet specific criteria for functional constipation may be eligible. Participants must have completed cancer treatments like surgery or chemotherapy at least one month ago and be able to provide informed consent in English. Please review eligibility criteria for more details.

Is there any cost to participate in this constipation clinical trial?

Study-related care, including the study drug and all trial visits, is provided at no cost. However, personal travel and other expenses are not guaranteed to be covered and may vary. Participants should plan accordingly for any additional costs.

Actively Recruiting

Phase Not Applicable

Age: 18Years +

All Genders

ID07091084

Effect of Herbal Formula Ma-Zi-Ren-Wan on Bowel Function and Gut Microbiome in Adult Cancer Survivors With Constipation A Double-Blind Randomized Study

Led by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center · Updated on 2026-05-22

Participants Needed

Research Sites

N/A

Total Duration

AI-Summary

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the herbal formula Ma-Zi-Ren-Wan MZRW as a treatment for constipation in cancer survivors. This study aims to compare MZRW with a placebo to see if it improves bowel movements and to study its effect on the gut microbiome, which is important for digestion and immune health. The trial is a double-blinded, randomized controlled study led by Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Participants will receive either MZRW or a placebo pill for 2 weeks. MZRW contains extracts from several herbs, including hemp seed, fresh rhubarb, white peony, aurantium immaturus, magnolia bark, and apricot kernel. After the 2-week treatment period, participants will be followed for an additional 2 weeks. The study compares the number of spontaneous bowel movements from the start to the end of the 2-week treatment. During the study, participants will complete assessments related to their bowel movements and symptoms of constipation. Researchers will monitor changes in spontaneous bowel movements as the main outcome. The study includes a baseline period, a 2-week treatment phase, and a 2-week follow-up. Participants will provide informed consent and complete all study assessments independently in English. The total participation lasts around 4 weeks, including treatment and follow-up.

CONDITIONS

Brief Title

A Study of Herbal Supplements in Cancer Survivors With Constipation

Who Can Participate

Age: 18Years +

All Genders

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify if you...

Age 18 years or greater
Diagnosis of cancer with no restrictions on cancer type or stage
Completed surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiotherapy, or investigational therapy at least 1 month prior; stable hormone or targeted therapies allowed
Karnofsky functional score of 60 or higher
Cancer survivors meeting Rome IV criteria for functional constipation, including two or more specific bowel symptoms
Ability to understand and complete all study assessments independently
Ability to provide signed informed consent in English

You will not qualify if you...

Allergy to herbs or Chinese medicine
Significant liver abnormalities (ALT or AST over twice the normal limit) or kidney dysfunction (eGFR below 59 mL/min/1.73m²) based on recent tests
Signs or high risk of bowel obstruction, including factors like tumor invasion, recent surgery, or prior radiation
Use of opioid antagonists for opioid-induced constipation that cannot be stopped
Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or not using proper contraception; contraception required for at least 30 days after last study dose

Research Team

Jun Mao, MD, MSCE

Yen Nien (Jason) Hou, PharmD

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