Preparing for Insulin Potentiation Therapy: What Patients Need to Know
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Starting a new cancer treatment can bring up a range of questions and concerns, especially if the approach is unfamiliar. For patients seeking a more targeted option with fewer side effects than conventional chemotherapy, insulin potentiation therapy (IPT) may offer an encouraging alternative.
At Kotsanis Institute of Functional Medicine in Grapevine, TX, our dedicated team provides an extensive range of holistic, safe, and effective cancer care complements to help create personalized care plans for cancer patients. Keep reading to learn what steps you can take to prepare for your first IPT session and what to expect during the process.
What is insulin cancer treatment?
Insulin potentiation therapy, or IPT, is a low-dose chemotherapy approach designed to potentially increase the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments while reducing unwanted side effects of chemotherapy. IPT involves using insulin as a biological response modifier to help chemotherapy drugs enter cancer cells more easily. This allows for a lower dose of chemotherapy agents to be used while still providing a strong therapeutic impact on cancer cells. Because insulin makes cancer cells more receptive to treatment, IPT may help minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues. For many patients, this means a more tolerable therapy course, fewer side effects, and an improved quality of life during cancer treatment.
What do I need to do before starting IPT cancer care?
Being well-prepared can help your first IPT treatment go smoothly and reduce feelings of anxiety you may have. Before your session, our team will walk you through the full process of administering IPT and answer questions you or your family have. While each person's experience will vary somewhat based on their unique case and individual needs, some general tips on preparing for IPT include:
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- Have a light meal or snack beforehand
- Bring water to stay hydrated
- Pack entertainment, like a book or music
- Arrange for a ride home if needed
Depending on your health and treatment plan, our team may also recommend specific blood work or lab testing before starting IPT. All patients will need to have a full consultation, which will include collaboration with your oncologist and primary care providers, before being accepted into our IPT cancer care program.
What happens during IPT cancer treatment?
Each IPT treatment takes place in a relaxed and supportive environment. You will remain comfortably seated in a reclining chair while an IV is placed. The insulin is administered first, followed by a low dose of chemotherapy. This sequence allows the insulin to increase cell permeability and make cancer cells more receptive to the chemotherapy agents. IPT sessions typically last between 60 – 90 minutes. Many patients report that the process feels similar to standard IV therapy and is well tolerated with minimal discomfort.
Are there any side effects after IPT?
Just like with any cancer therapy, each person's experience with IPT is slightly different. Still, most patients report fewer side effects of IPT compared with traditional chemotherapy. Some of the common post-treatment experiences may include mild fatigue or nausea during the first few sessions, which generally lessen over time. In some cases, there may be a temporary drop in white or red blood cell counts. However, since IPT uses lower chemotherapy doses, the chances of severe hair loss, bone marrow suppression, or other major side effects are typically reduced. Our team will closely monitor your response to IPT and make necessary adjustments along the way to set you up for the most successful treatment and comfortable experience possible.
Kick the side effects of chemo with IPT cancer treatment in Grapevine, TX
If you are preparing to begin cancer treatment with insulin potentiation therapy, knowing what to expect and how to prepare can help you feel more at ease. At Kotsanis Institute of Functional Medicine in Grapevine, TX, our compassionate team is dedicated to offering a more personalized and comfortable experience for patients pursuing IPT as part of their cancer care. To learn more about preparing for IPT and whether this treatment may be right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation.