NCT06386887 · Case Comprehensive Cancer Center
Fasting During Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Patient With Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to see if timed fasting (periods of time that you don't eat) in participants who are receiving chemotherapy prior to surgery is achievable, safe and can improve quality of life, symptoms and outcomes (results) compared to participants who receive standard dietary recommendations in individuals being treated for epithelial ovarian cancer .
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to see if timed fasting (periods of time that you don't eat) in participants who are receiving chemotherapy prior to surgery is achievable, safe and can improve quality of life, symptoms and outcomes (results) compared to participants who receive standard dietary recommendations in individuals being treated for epithelial ovarian cancer . The main questions it aims to answer are: * Is it feasible to use intermittent fasting during neoadjuvant chemotherapy? * Is it safe to use intermittent fasting during neoadjuvant chemotherapy? * Do participants find it acceptable to use intermittent fasting during neoadjuvant chemotherapy? Researchers will compare participants who receive standard dietary recommendations to see which method is more achievable, safe, and able to improve quality of life, symptoms and outcomes. Participants will: * Receive either the fasting intervention (schedule of times when you do not eat) or standard diet recommendations for 6-9 weeks prior to your surgery starting with the second cycle of chemotherapy. * All participants will be asked to complete chemotherapy and surgery, cancer imaging, baseline screening tests, nutritional assessments, food diaries, blood tests, and surveys about wellbeing. * Participants in the intervention group will be asked to follow a fasting schedule that consists of not eating for 16 hours a day followed by normal eating for the remaining 8 hours of the day for 5 days in a row followed by 2 days of regular eating each week.
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 and above
- Participants with confirmed diagnosis of primary epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) by internal cytologic or histologic evaluation (including fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancer)
- Participants receiving platinum-based chemotherapy for ovarian cancer including
- Participants with stage III or IV EOC planned to undergo neoadjuvant chemotherapy (including participants who had a diagnostic laparoscopy or aborted debulking) OR
- Participants with stage III or IV EOC following primary debulking surgery
- Participants with recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer who will receive platinum-based chemotherapy OR
- Participants who had undergone neoadjuvant chemotherapy and interval debulking surgery who will be receiving adjuvant (postoperative) chemotherapy
- Any invasive ovarian cancer histology
- Normal cognitive function
Exclusion criteria
- Age \<18 years
- Malignant complete or partial bowel obstruction confirmed on imaging.
- Participants unable to provide informed consent.
- Participants diagnosed with severe malnutrition as assessed by study dietitian
- Type I diabetes on insulin
- Absence of pretreatment CT abdomen and pelvis imaging or \>4-6 weeks between imaging and cycle 1 of chemotherapy.
Where
- Cleveland, Ohio
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 25, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations