NCT05441813 · Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Coconut Oil to Prevent Mouth Sores in Pediatric Patients Receiving High Dose Chemotherapy
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to learn if virgin coconut oil (VCO) mouth rinse can help prevent taken by mouth mucositis. The Study Investigator will compare the usual treatment mucositis prevention rinses with the VCO mouth rinse added to the the usual treatment mucositis prevention rinses. The severity of taken by mouth mucositis between the 2 groups will be evaluated.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to learn if virgin coconut oil (VCO) mouth rinse can help prevent oral mucositis. The Study Investigator will compare standard of care mucositis prevention rinses with the VCO mouth rinse added to the standard of care mucositis prevention rinses. The severity of oral mucositis between the 2 groups will be evaluated. Some of the standard of care rinses that can be used to prevent mucositis are normal saline, Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Mylanta, lidocaine, or other combinations.
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
- Subject must meet all the following applicable inclusion criteria to participate in this study:
- Written informed consent, HIPAA authorization for release of personal health information, and assent, when applicable from the subject, parent, or legal guardian.
- Age greater than or equal to 7 years to 26 years at the time of consent
- Patients planning to undergo myeloablative conditioning regimens in preparation for HSCT
- ECOG Performance Status of less than or equal to 2 or Lansky/Karnofsky Performance Status of greater than or equal to 50 within 7 days prior to date of enrollment.
- No evidence of mouth lesions at time of enrollment
- Ability of the subject and parent/caregiver to understand and comply with study procedures for the entire length of the study
- Able and willing to swish/spit the oral formulation
Exclusion criteria
- Subjects meeting any of the criteria below may not participate in the study:
- Allergy to tree nuts
- Planned discharge home prior to engraftment
- Using coconut oil mouth rinses within 30 days prior to enrollment
- Using additional mouthcare regimens, other than those allowed in the institutional SOP, prior to admission with a plan to continue use during admission
- Patient has undergone HSCT within the last 90 days prior to admission
Where
- Charlotte, North Carolina
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 Jan 7, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations