Stress Reduction Therapies for Ovarian Cancer

This trial tests whether a combination of stress-reduction therapies, including medications like propranolol (a beta-blocker) and etodolac (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug), along with mind-body resilience training and music therapy, can help women with advanced ovarian cancer feel less stressed around the time of their surgery. It compares these therapies to the usual care, which lacks specific stress-reduction interventions. Women diagnosed with stage II-IV ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer and scheduled for major surgery might be suitable candidates for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative stress-reduction strategies that could enhance the surgical experience.

The trial requires that you do not take any β-blockers or COX inhibitors, as chronic treatment with these medications is an exclusion criterion. If you are currently on these medications, you would need to stop taking them to participate in the trial.

Research shows that the treatments in this trial—mind-body resilience training, music therapy, propranolol, and etodolac—are generally well-tolerated.

Mind-body resilience training has been tested in various studies. One study found it helpful and feasible for cancer survivors to manage fear and stress. Another study showed that focusing on sleep through mind-body techniques improved sleep and overall well-being.

Music therapy is considered safe for cancer patients. Research suggests it can enhance mental health and quality of life, especially during chemotherapy.

Propranolol, often used for heart problems, might also aid in cancer treatment by blocking stress-related pathways, according to studies. It is widely used and generally considered safe, though safety checks continue.

Etodolac, a drug used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation, can increase the risk of heart and blood vessel problems, so monitoring for these effects is important.

Researchers are excited about these treatments for ovarian cancer because they combine pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches to tackle both physical and psychological stress. Unlike the standard of care, which typically revolves around surgery and chemotherapy, this trial includes etodolac and propranolol, two drugs that may help reduce inflammation and stress responses. Additionally, mind-body resilience training and music therapy are employed to boost emotional well-being and resilience, which could improve recovery and quality of life. This holistic approach aims to address the disease from multiple angles, offering a potentially more comprehensive treatment option.

Research has shown that mind-body resilience training, which participants in this trial may receive, can help ovarian cancer patients by reducing stress and improving their quality of life. Another treatment option in this trial is music therapy, which studies have found decreases anxiety and emotional distress in cancer patients. Participants may also receive propranolol, a medication that evidence suggests might improve cancer outcomes by lowering the risk of recurrence, especially when used around the time of surgery. Etodolac, another drug under study in this trial, is commonly used for pain and inflammation and has shown some potential in slowing cancer cell growth. Together, these therapies aim to manage stress and possibly improve recovery and well-being for ovarian cancer patients.²⁴⁶⁷⁸