NCT06028022 · Mayo Clinic
Reishi Mushroom Extract for Fatigue and/or Arthralgias/Myalgias in Patients With Breast Cancer on Aromatase Inhibitors
What this study is about
This phase II trial tests how well Reishi mushroom extract works in treating fatigue and/or joint/muscle pain (arthralgias/myalgias) in patients with breast cancer on aromatase inhibitors. Fatigue and arthralgias/myalgias are common symptoms in breast cancer patients taking aromatase inhibitors (AI).
View original scientific description
This phase II trial tests how well Reishi mushroom extract works in treating fatigue and/or joint/muscle pain (arthralgias/myalgias) in patients with breast cancer on aromatase inhibitors. Fatigue and arthralgias/myalgias are common symptoms in breast cancer patients taking aromatase inhibitors (AI). Given the long duration of AI treatment for some women (up to 10 years), these symptoms can significantly impact quality of life and premature discontinuation of AIs, a beneficial medication.
Interventions
DIETARY_SUPPLEMENT
Mushroom Extract
Given Reishi mushroom extract PO
DRUG
Placebo Administration
Given PO
OTHER
Quality-of-Life Assessment
Ancillary studies
OTHER
Questionnaire Administration
Ancillary studies
Primary outcome measures
Change in fatigue scores
Time frame: Baseline to end of four weeks
Based on a single item fatigue uniscale question. Will be compared between arms using a two-sided two-sample t-test assuming equal variances in each group.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age ≥ 18 years
- History of breast cancer, estrogen receptor positive (ER+), Her 2 positive or negative
- Fatigue ≥ 4/10
- Currently post-menopausal (as defined by National Comprehensive Cancer Network (version 4.2024), taking any aromatase inhibitor in the curative setting and planning to be on such for at least 8 weeks after registration. \[Patients on concurrent ovarian suppression (such as with leuprolide acetate, goserelin) are allowed\]; CDK 4/6 inhibitors abemaciclib, ribociclib ARE allowed
- Prior treatment: last chemotherapy ≥ 90 days prior to randomization (if treated with chemotherapy)
- On a stable dose of pain medications if pain medications are being regularly used. (i.e., no change in dosage in the past 30 days)
- If on supplements, must be on stable dose with no plan to change; not on or planning any acupuncture or other specific supportive modalities for fatigue or AI arthralgias
- Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS)
Where
- Albert Lea, Minnesota
- Baxter, Minnesota
- Bemidji, Minnesota
- Brainerd, Minnesota
- Deer River, Minnesota
- Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
- Duluth, Minnesota
- Ely, Minnesota
- Fosston, Minnesota
- Grand Rapids, Minnesota
- Hibbing, Minnesota
- International Falls, Minnesota
And 10 more locations — see the full list below.
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations