Dichloroacetate (DCA) salts
What is Dichloroacetate (DCA)?
Dichloroacetate (DCA) is a small molecule with a molecular weight of 150 Da, identified as a potential metabolic-targeting therapy for cancer (1). DCA operates as a synthetic pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase inhibitor, accelerating the flow of pyruvate into the mitochondria. This results in heightened oxidative phosphorylation and reduced glycolysis (1) (2). DCA is available in powder form, which can be processed into pills. Notably, DCA can penetrate sanctuary sites traditionally resistant to chemotherapy, including the brain (1).
Dichloroacetate (DCA): This medication has been shown to improve energy production in some types of mitochondrial disease by stimulating the mitochondria to switch to a different metabolic pathway.
Dosage
Dosing of DCA varies based on the targeted condition and patient weight (1). A typical dose for DCA ranges between 10-250 ΞΌM or 0.15-37.5 ΞΌg mlβ1, contingent on the dose-dependent manner (1).
Side Effects
Generally, DCA exhibits good tolerability, and adverse effects are rare (1) (2). Potential side effects following oral consumption can encompass neurotoxicity, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (2).
Interactions
Certain medications might interact adversely with DCA, making it imperative to consult a medical expert before co-administering DCA with other drugs or supplements (2).
Human Studies
DCA has undergone studies for its prospective health benefits, notably as a possible metabolic-targeting therapy for cancer (1) (2). Nonetheless, the practical clinical application of DCA in oncological treatments remains largely experimental. Obstacles such as the manifestation of neurotoxicity side effects and potential DCA carcinogenicity concerns currently hinder its wider clinical adoption (2).
In essence, Dichloroacetate (DCA) is a synthetic compound inhibiting pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase. It augments the pyruvate flow into mitochondria, optimizing oxidative phosphorylation and moderating glycolysis. DCA, available as a powder, can be converted into pill form, and is known to infiltrate chemotherapy-protected sanctuary sites like the brain. Dosing typically falls between 10-250 ΞΌM or 0.15-37.5 ΞΌg mlβ1. Though generally well-received, DCA might produce certain side effects. It could also interact with some medications, so expert consultation is advised. While DCA is researched for its potential in cancer therapy, current clinical applications are limited, with concerns about side effects and possible carcinogenicity acting as deterrents.
Citations:
(1) https://www.nature.com/articles/6604554
(2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31827705/
(3) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6885244/
(4) https://cancerquest.org/patients/integrative-oncology/dichloroacetate-dca
(5) https://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/38/11/6253
(6) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dichloroacetic_acid