Effect of ArginMax on sexual functioning and quality of life among female cancer survivors: results of the WFU CCOP Research Base Protocol 97106.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Problems with sexual functioning are common following therapy for breast and gynecologic cancers, although there are few effective treatments.

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the impact of ArginMax, a nutritional supplement comprised of extracts of L-arginine, ginseng, gingko, and damiana, as well as multivitamins and minerals, on sexual functioning and quality of life in female cancer survivors.

METHODS:

This was a 12-week, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of eligible patients who were 6 months or more from active treatment and reporting problems with sexual interest, satisfaction, and functioning after therapy. The participants took 3 capsules of Arginmax or placebo twice daily. Outcome measures were the Female Sexual Function Inventory (FSFI) and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy - General (FACT-G). Assessments were done at baseline, 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

RESULTS:

186 patients with a median age of 50 years were accrued between May 10, 2007 and March 24, 2010. 76% of the patients were non-Hispanic white. Most had breast or a gynecologic cancer (78% and 12%, respectively). At 12 weeks, there were no differences between the ArginMax group (n = 96) and placebo (n = 92) group in sexual desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm,satisfaction or pain. However, FACT-G total scores were significantly better for participants who took ArginMax compared with those who took placebo (least squares [LS] means, 87.5 vs 82.9, respectively; P = .009). The Fact-G subscales that were most affected were Physical (25.37 vs. 23.51, P = .001) and Functional Well-Being (22.46 vs. 20.72, P = .007). Toxicities were similar for both groups.

LIMITATIONS:

Study results are limited by a lack of data on the participants' psychological and physical symptoms and sexual partner variables.

CONCLUSIONS:

ArginMax had no significant impact on sexual functioning, but patient quality of life was significantly better at 12 weeks in participants who received ArginMax.

• Authors: Kathryn M Greven, L Douglas Case, Lawrence R Nycum, Patricia J Zekan, David D Hurd, Ernie P Balcueva, Glenn M Mills, Robin Zon, Patrick J Flynn, David Biggs, Edward G Shaw, Glenn Lesser, Michelle J Naughton
• Journal: The Journal of community and supportive oncology (J Community Support Oncol) Vol. 13 Issue 3 Pg. 87-94 (Mar 2015) ISSN: 2330-7749 [Print] United States
• PMID: 26287032 (Publication Type: Journal Article)
• Copyright: ©2015 Frontline Medical Communications.