ca. 35 min Englisch

Dr. Jean-Lionel Bagot
Medical doctor, focus on integrative oncology

Integrative homeopathy in breast cancer supportive care

Background
Targeted therapies (TT) represent a major therapeutic advance in breast cancer management but are associated with specific toxicities requiring close clinical
monitoring and high-quality supportive care. In Europe, homeopathy is among the most frequently used complementary approaches in integrative oncology. Recent
studies have reported high patient satisfaction rates (up to 80%) for symptom management, particularly for pain, fatigue, anxiety, and nausea.
Methodology Following the recommendations of the International Homeopathic Society for Supportive Care in Oncology,
a review of the scientific literature, and expert clinical experience, the authors propose homeopathic care protocols specifically adapted to the main classes of targeted therapies for breast cancer.
Results The most common adverse effects of antibody–drug conjugates, immunotherapies, anti-cyclins, and PARP inhibitors were considered. In cases of hematologic
toxicity, Medulla ossium 8DH is systematically recommended, together with Natrum muriaticum and Arsenicum album for neutropenia, China rubra for anemia, and
Crotalus horridus for thrombocytopenia. Isotherapy at 7CH of oral agents (anti-cyclins and PARP inhibitors) is recommended in cases of poor tolerance. Nux vomica
is proposed as first-line therapy for nausea or digestive disturbances and Phosphoricum acidum for fatigue.
Podophyllum is advised for diarrhea, while Phosphorus is indicated in cases of interstitial lung disease, bleeding
or elevated transaminases. For immunotherapy-related reactions, Silicea and Dysprosium are recommended to help balance immune responses.
Discussion
While targeted therapies constitute therapeutic progress, they require comprehensive, well-integrated supportive strategies. Improving tolerance enhances
adherence, quality of life, and potentially survival. As an add-on therapy with no significant side effects or drug interactions, homeopathy offers a favorable safety profile, particularly for treatments with a narrow therapeutic index.
Conclusion
These expert-based guidelines provide practical, standardized prescribing support for clinicians, including non-homeopathic practitioners, to improve patient
tolerance to targeted therapies. Their clinical relevance and efficacy should now be validated through prospective randomized controlled trials.