Psyllium Supplementation for Reducing Radiation-Induced Diarrhea: A Pilot Study

Psyllium Supplementation for Reducing Radiation-Induced Diarrhea: A Pilot Study

The study Testing Control of Radiation-Induced Diarrhea with a Psyllium Bulking Agent: A Pilot Study by Murphy et al. (2000) explored whether psyllium, a soluble fiber supplement known for normalizing bowel movements, could reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea in patients receiving pelvic radiotherapy. Radiation-induced diarrhea is a common side effect that can disrupt treatment schedules and decrease patient comfort and nutritional status.

In this small pilot study, 21 patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy were randomized to receive either psyllium husk (3.4 g twice daily) or a control intervention throughout their treatment. Participants recorded stool frequency and consistency daily, and severity of diarrhea was graded using standard toxicity scales.

The results showed that patients taking psyllium experienced a meaningful reduction in diarrhea frequency and severity compared to controls. Specifically, 43% of patients in the psyllium group developed moderate to severe diarrhea versus 67% in the control group. Psyllium was well tolerated, with no adverse gastrointestinal effects reported.

These findings suggest that psyllium supplementation may help stabilize bowel function and reduce radiation-induced diarrhea in patients receiving pelvic radiation, offering a simple, inexpensive, and safe supportive measure during treatment.v

Reference:

Murphy J, Stacey D, Crook J, Thompson B, Panetta D. Testing control of radiation-induced diarrhea with a psyllium bulking agent: a pilot study. Can Oncol Nurs J. 2000;10(3):96‐100