Hand–foot syndrome is a common side effect of the chemotherapy drug capecitabine (also called Xeloda), often used in colon, breast and other cancers. It can cause redness, swelling, pain, and peeling on the palms and soles, making daily activities uncomfortable and sometimes leading to chemotherapy dose reductions or treatment delays.

A recent clinical trial published in the British Medical Journal tested whether methylcobalamin, a form of vitamin B12, could help prevent hand–foot syndrome in women receiving capecitabine. Patients took oral B12 or a placebo three times daily alongside chemotherapy.

The study found that taking B12 significantly lowered the severity of hand-foot syndrome without unexpected safety concerns. The study also found that the oral B12 had the potential to reduce the dose modification of oral chemotherapy due to these symptoms. The supplement was well tolerated, and no new side effects were observed.

While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, B12 may help support nerve health and reduce inflammation in the hands and feet, helping to protect against the painful effects of chemotherapy.

For patients, these findings are encouraging: a simple, safe supplement like vitamin B12 could help make chemotherapy easier to tolerate and help maintain quality of life during treatment. As always, it’s important to discuss any supplements with your oncology team to ensure they fit safely into your treatment plan.

Author: Megan Sandri ND, Integrated Cancer Clinic Resident

Please note that the information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It is essential to consult with your healthcare provider or a qualified professional before making any healthcare decisions or taking any actions based on the information presented here.