NCT03769766 · University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
Trial of Curcumin to Prevent Progression of Low-risk Prostate Cancer Under Active Surveillance
What this study is about
This is a forward-looking study to determine if the use of curcumin randomly assigned against placebo will reduce cancer progression in patients with prostate cancer undergoing active surveillance.
View original scientific description
This is a prospective study to determine if the use of curcumin randomized against placebo will reduce cancer progression in patients with prostate cancer undergoing active surveillance.
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 between 40-89 years
- Biopsy proven, low-risk, localized prostate cancer (minimum of 8 cores)
- May have had biopsy within last 12 months
- ≤4 separate locations in the prostate involved with cancer. If multiple cores are obtained from same lesion or area than this will count as one location.
- Gleason score ≤6 with no Gleason pattern 4
- Clinical stage T1c-T2a/b
- Serum PSA ≤15 ng/ml
- Life expectancy \> 5 years
Exclusion criteria
- Any previous prostate cancer treatment (radiotherapy, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, oral glucocorticoids, GnRH analogues, prostatectomy)
- Concurrent or previous use within 6 months of screening of any 5α-reductase inhibitor
- Use of anabolic steroids or drugs with antiandrogenic properties
- Prostate volume \>150 cm³
- Patients who are taking antiplatelet, anticoagulant agents or have a history of a bleeding disorder. Patients taking 81 mg of Aspirin will be allowed to enroll with close observation
- History of gastric or duodenal ulcers or untreated hyperacidity syndromes. Patients on stable doses (2 months of therapy) of GERD medication allowed.
- Patients who are currently taking Curcumin and are unwilling to stop or plan to take Curcumin during the study
- Patients with a history of gallbladder problems or gallstones or biliary obstruction, unless patient had cholecystectomy
Where
- Dallas, Texas
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 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations