Effects of Shen Cao Granules on Chemotherapy-Induced Thrombocytopenia in Gastrointestinal Cancer Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: To observe clinical effects of Shen Cao granules on thrombocytopenia in patients with gastrointestinal cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Patients and Methods: Patients under a FOLFIRI chemotherapy regimen (n = 92) were randomly divided into study and control groups (n = 46 for each group) and were given 10 g of Shen Cao granules and a placebo, respectively, once daily on chemotherapy treatment days. Platelet counts were measured every other day and any adverse reaction recorded during the study and at follow-up. Results: The incidence of thrombocytopenia (grades II-IV) in the study group was significantly decreased, and the length of hospitalization significantly reduced compared with the control group (11.21 ± 2.46 vs 15.34 ± 3.68 days, P