The growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a agonists, anamorelin and ipamorelin, inhibit cisplatin-induced weight loss in ferrets: Anamorelin also exhibits anti-emetic effects via a central mechanism

Chemotherapy-induced weight loss and cachexia significantly impact quality of life and treatment outcomes for cancer patients. This study by Lu, Ngan, Liu, and colleagues investigated whether ipamorelin, a growth hormone secretagogue receptor agonist, could protect against cisplatin-induced weight loss and nausea.

Using a ferret model, the researchers tested ipamorelin's ability to prevent chemotherapy-induced weight loss and examined whether the peptide also possessed anti-emetic properties. The ferret model is particularly relevant because it closely mimics human emetic responses to chemotherapy.

The results showed that ipamorelin effectively inhibited cisplatin-induced weight loss, demonstrating meaningful protection against chemotherapy-related cachexia. This appetite-preserving effect could help patients maintain nutritional status and strength during demanding cancer treatment protocols.

For cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, maintaining body weight and appetite is crucial for treatment tolerance and recovery. Ipamorelin's demonstrated ability to counteract chemotherapy-induced weight loss opens an important avenue for supportive care in oncology, potentially improving both quality of life and treatment outcomes for patients facing this challenging side effect.