Researchers at Tata Memorial Hospital have found that standardized papaya leaf extract tablets may help cancer patients recover from chemotherapy-induced low platelet counts more quickly. The findings suggest that the tablets could reduce treatment interruptions and improve patients’ ability to continue chemotherapy as planned.
Affordable Alternative to Existing Treatment
Doctors explained that the commonly used drug romiplostim is effective but expensive and may take several weeks to restore platelet levels. In comparison, papaya leaf extract tablets are significantly more affordable and showed faster platelet recovery in the clinical trial.
As reported by The Times of India, the Phase III study involved 219 patients with solid tumours who developed low platelet counts during chemotherapy. Patients who received papaya leaf extract tablets experienced quicker platelet recovery, fewer chemotherapy delays, and fewer dose reductions than those who received a placebo.
What the Researchers Say
The research team believes the tablets could become an affordable supportive treatment for chemotherapy-induced thrombocytopenia, particularly in countries where treatment costs are a major concern. However, the tablets are intended to support cancer care and are not a replacement for chemotherapy. The study has been published in JCO Global Oncology.