Topical Cream Shows Promise in Preventing Chemotherapy-Induced Hand Neuropathy

Researchers in Spain and Belgium have reported that a specially formulated topical cream can significantly reduce the incidence and severity of chemotherapy‑induced neuropathy in the hands. The international, randomized clinical trial, described in Clinical & Translational Oncology, involved 142 patients receiving taxane‑ or platinum‑based chemotherapy.

In the trial, patients were randomly assigned to use either a standard moisturizing cream or the experimental “nociceutical” formulation developed at Miguel Hernández University (UMH). Across nine hospitals, investigators found that those using the nociceutical cream experienced a lower rate of hand neuropathy, a delayed onset of symptoms, and a reduced impact on day‑to‑day functioning. 

Neuropathy of the hands and feet is a frequent complication of taxane and platinum chemotherapy, affecting up to 80 percent of treated patients and often necessitating dose reductions or treatment interruptions. Because there has been no widely accepted preventive therapy, this targeted topical intervention could fill an important gap in supportive cancer care.

The cream is already available in Europe as a nonprescription “neurocosmetic” and is being commercialized via a spin‑out, Prospera Biotech. Researchers emphasize that its ingredients appear to protect neurosensory endings in the skin, which may help blunt the hypersensitivity, pain, and discomfort that often accompany chemotherapy‑induced peripheral neuropathy.

While the early results are promising, the authors note that further work is needed to validate effectiveness across broader patient populations, to optimize dosing, and to assess long‑term safety and durability of benefit. If confirmed, this topical approach could become a practical, low‑risk adjunct to chemotherapy regimens with neuropathic risk.