DCA (Dichloroacetate)
What is Dichloroacetate?
DCA / Dichloroacetate is a drug that has been considered for different conditions such as anti-diabetic, brain and heart conditions, and more.
The potential of DCA for cancer treatment got more attention following a 2007 publication from the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. The scientists concluded that DCA might act as a metabolic therapy for cancer; cancer cells are difficult to kill as they suppress the mitochondria (which power the cell). In the research, DCA activated the mitochondria within the cell.
DCA enters cancerous cells and forces them to use their mitochondria for energy production. The cancer cells slow down their proliferation and division during this process, effectively stopping cancer from spreading or growing.
DCA was shown to shrink tumors in rats and kill cancerous cells while not affecting healthy cells.
What does Medical Research say about DCA and Cancer?
Due to its mechanism of action, DCA showed positive outcomes for research of different types of cancers. Some DCA cancer clinical trials include:
- Acute myeloid leukemia
- Breast cancer
- Colon and colorectal cancer
- Glioblastoma
- Hodgkin Lymphoma
- Lung cancer
- Neuroblastoma
- Non-Hodgkin’s Follicular Lymphoma
- Oral squamous cell carcinoma
- Ovarian cancer
- Prostate cancer
Other positive impacts of DCA for cancer treatment, were pain reduction and reduced ascites in patients without adjuvant chemotherapy.
In October 2023, an important study found that DCA helped alleviate Cancer Related Fatigue (CRF) in mice, without interfering with cancer treatments. For those struggling with this debilitating condition, there have been no effective pharmaceutical treatments for the constellation of symptoms that together define the syndrome. Using DCA to treat CRF could provide life-changing relief for cancer patients.
How is DCA used effectively
DCA alongside Conventional Treatment
Recent studies have shown DCA seems to improve the efficacy of chemotherapy by inducing biochemical and metabolic alterations, resulting in significant changes of cancer cells’ energetic balance. DCA can also support radiotherapy by increasing oxygen and reducing acidity around the tumors. Furthermore, once the acidity around the tumor is reduced, the immune system functions better.
How is DCA Administered?
DCA can be given as an oral medication to or administered intravenously (through an IV). However, the preferred method is through an IV, as it is considered more powerful and has fewer side effects.
Safety and Toxicity
DCA for cancer treatment is well tolerated by most patients. However, DCA can cause a reversible peripheral neuropathy that may be lessened or prevented with thiamine supplementation. Some other mild side effects can include fatigue, confusion, memory loss, sedation, tremors, hallucination, agitation, depression, heartburn, and nausea.
DCA is metabolized by the liver. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when administering DCA to patients with compromised liver function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some studies suggest that DCA may help reduce tumor growth and promote cancer cell death by restoring normal cellular metabolism. It has also been suggested to enhance the effectiveness of other treatments like chemotherapy and radiation.
DCA is not widely available through standard pharmacies. Some specialized online suppliers offer DCA for research or compassionate use. It's crucial to ensure the quality and purity of the product and consult a healthcare provider before use.
DCA works by inhibiting the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK), promoting mitochondrial function and shifting cancer cells from abnormal glycolysis to normal glucose metabolism, potentially leading to cancer cell death.
DCA dosage varies depending on the individual case, body weight, and condition being treated. It's critical to follow a healthcare provider’s guidance on dosage.
Long-term risks are not fully understood. Prolonged use of DCA has been associated with neuropathy, and regular monitoring is advised to manage side effects.
