Simple Over-the-Counter Solution Shows Promise Against Chemo Brain

Clear Facts

• University of Rochester study finds low-dose ibuprofen and home exercise may combat chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment affecting up to 80% of cancer patients
• 86 patients tested four treatments over six weeks, with exercise showing the clearest improvements in attention and cognitive function
• No adverse side effects reported during trial, though larger studies needed to confirm findings

A readily available medication combined with simple physical activity could offer relief to cancer patients struggling with one of chemotherapy’s most frustrating side effects.

Researchers at the University of Rochester tested whether physical activity and low-dose ibuprofen could help patients receiving chemotherapy treatment combat “chemo brain” — a condition affecting memory, concentration and multitasking ability.

Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment strikes up to 80% of people undergoing treatment, previous research has shown. The phase 2 trial studied 86 adult cancer patients in New York who were experiencing cognitive problems during their chemotherapy. The average age was 53 and nearly 89% were women.

Participants were randomly assigned to four groups: one doing home exercises designed for cancer patients, a second combining exercise with ibuprofen (200 milligrams twice daily), a third taking only ibuprofen, and a fourth receiving a placebo.

The exercise regimen consisted of low to moderate-intensity activity, including progressive walking and resistance band training.

“This is one of the first studies specifically designed to assess these interventions for cancer-related cognitive impairment during chemotherapy in patients with multiple diseases using both performance-based cognitive assessments and patient-reported outcomes,” said lead author Michelle C. Janelsins, Ph.D., MPH, of the University of Rochester and the Wilmot Cancer Institute.

After six weeks, exercise demonstrated the clearest improvements in attention and cognitive function, according to reports from family and friends. Those combining exercise with placebo showed better attention levels than those receiving only placebo.

Patients taking only ibuprofen also demonstrated greater cognitive improvements than the placebo group, though benefits appeared smaller and less consistent than exercise results.

The findings suggest inflammation may contribute to cancer-related cognitive impairment, making anti-inflammatory medications a potentially effective treatment approach.

“We are encouraged by the findings of this trial that suggest possible benefits of both interventions for some cognitive domains. Clearly, we saw a more pronounced effect with exercise, which is notable considering the multiple health benefits of exercise for cancer survivors.”

No adverse side effects were reported during the trial. The findings appeared in Cancer, the peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society.

Researchers acknowledged study limitations, including the small sample size and short duration. Effects were not consistent across every measure of cognitive function. Since most participants were women, findings may not apply to broader populations.

Larger phase 3 trials are planned to confirm whether ibuprofen and exercise can effectively improve chemo-related cognitive impairment.

“Since we saw cognitive benefits in some domains and not others, we will also consider additional doses and longer durations in future research trials,” Janelsins said.

Investigators emphasized patients should consult their oncology team before starting ibuprofen or exercise interventions during chemotherapy, as certain treatments or medical conditions could increase the risk of side effects and complications.

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