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TORONTO, CANADA. Cachexia (general weakness and loss of weight and appetite) is
a serious complication in many forms of cancer. There is now evidence that
hydrazine sulfate given orally or by injection may reduce the severity of
cachexia and improve the quality of life in cancer patients. There are also
some still controversial indications that hydrazine sulfate may inhibit tumor
growth and improve survival. The use of hydrazine sulfate in cancer therapy was
first proposed by Dr. Joseph Gold, an oncologist at the Syracuse Cancer Research
Institute. Since Dr. Gold's discovery extensive research on hydrazine sulfate
has been carried out in Russia and the United States. The Russian studies
report significant improvements in well-being and survival while the results of
the American studies are more ambiguous. Hydrazine sulfate is legally available
to physicians in both Canada and the United States. It is usually given orally
(60 mg three times daily) over a period of 30-45 days followed by a rest period
of two to six weeks. There are no serious side effects but Dr. Gold cautions
that alcohol, barbiturates, and tranquillizers (particularly benzodiazepines)
interfere with the effectiveness of hydrazine sulfate. Because hydrazine
sulfate is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor it is also advisable to avoid foods
rich in tyramine during therapy. This therapy is compatible with and may
enhance conventional therapies, especially chemotherapy.
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