Certain dietary regimens
Vitamin E supplementation
Soy supplementation in prostate cancer
Selected herbal products and biological agents
Acupuncture for chemotherapy-related nausea/vomiting or for pain
Massage for anxiety or pain
Moderate exercise
Psychological/mind-body therapies (e.g., support groups, relaxation training, imagery)
The authors advise patients to avoid certain CAM therapies, including the following:
Highly restrictive dietary regimens for those with poor nutritional status
Antioxidants for those receiving concurrent radiation or chemotherapy
Supplements with anticoagulant effects for those who are thrombocytopenic, receiving anticoagulant therapy, or undergoing surgery
Phytoestrogens (e.g., soy supplements) for patients with breast cancer (especially those who have estrogen receptor-positive tumors or are taking tamoxifen) or endometrial cancer
Acupuncture for those who are thrombocytopenic or receiving anticoagulant therapy
Deep tissue or forceful massage for those who are thrombocytopenic or receiving anticoagulant therapy
St. Johns wort for those undergoing concurrent chemotherapy or taking other drugs for which failure to achieve therapeutic levels could lead to serious consequences
High-dose vitamin A is prudent for all patients to avoid
High-dose vitamin C is prudent for all patients to avoid
Source: Weiger WA, Smith M, Boon H, Richardson MA, Kaptchuk TJ, Eisenberg DM. Advising patients who seek complementary and alternative medical therapies for cancer.
Ann Intern Med 2002;137:889903
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