Recruiting

Testing a supplement to prevent thinking and memory problems from ovarian cancer chemotherapy

Plain-English translation of NCT04520139 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated July 2026 · Translation generated July 2026 · How we translate trials

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Phase 1/2 — A combined trial that checks safety and dosing while also starting to look at whether the treatment works.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing whether adding (NAC) — a supplement — can help prevent or reduce thinking and memory problems that some people experience during chemotherapy for ovarian cancer. The study has two parts: first, doctors will find the right dose of the medication that is safe and well-tolerated, and then they will test whether it actually works to protect your thinking and memory during treatment.

Some ovarian cancer patients receiving platinum-based chemotherapy experience difficulty with concentration, memory, and thinking — problems that can last long after treatment ends. This study exists to see whether this medication might protect your brain during chemotherapy and help you avoid these problems.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are a post-menopausal woman (have not had a period for at least 12 months, or have had your ovaries surgically removed)
you have been diagnosed with stage III or IV ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer
you have had or are planning to have surgery to remove your cancer
you are prescribed to receive at least six cycles of platinum-based chemotherapy
you are in good enough overall health, with normal blood counts and organ function

You likely don't qualify if…

you have had any other cancer before (except non-melanoma skin cancer)
you have a history of dementia, severe head injury, or other brain conditions that affect memory
you have untreated depression or severe mental health conditions that are hard to control
you have a known infection with HIV, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C
you are pregnant or breastfeeding

What participation looks like

In Phase 1, you would take the supplement at a starting dose while receiving your regular chemotherapy, and doctors would carefully watch for any side effects and adjust the dose if needed. Once they find the safest dose, Phase 2 will enroll more patients to confirm the medication works to protect thinking and memory. Throughout the study, you will have regular medical visits, blood tests, and thinking/memory assessments to track how you are doing.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 21, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

United States

Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Irvine, Orange, California