Megamin
Abstract and key points
There is no evidence that Megamin (TMAZ) has a direct anticancer effect, can lessen side effects of chemotherapy or relief symptoms in cancer patients. Although data exist regarding the safety of zeolites for oral exposures, TMAZ could potentially cause deficiencies of trace elements or disorders of homeostasis.
Megamin is a brand name for tribomechanically activated zeolite clinoptilolite (TMAZ), which is a special prepared framework quartz mineral. As a result of so-called “tribomechanical activation”, these silicates are claimed to have a distinct antioxidant effect. The manufacturer recommends TMAZ as a dietary supplement. TMAZ is sold throughout Europe under the brand name Megamin.
Its antioxidant activity is claimed to improve the health of those with malignant diseases (and other conditions). It is suggested that TMAZ supports the normalisation of anaemia, improves general health, decreases pain, improves physical condition and palliates side-effects of chemotherapy like nausea, vomiting, hair and weight loss and improves appetite.
A search for trials confirming these claims was conducted. There is a lack of good quality clinical evidence. The only existing reference is an unpublished best-case-analysis, which was carried out in collaboration with the manufacturer in 2001. This could not confirm the claimed anti-cancer effects. In addition to that, there are no data to confirm the claimed improvements of general health.
Therefore, at present there is no convincing evidence regarding the efficacy of TMAZ supplementation against cancer, regarding the improvement of side effects of cancer therapy by TMAZ or regarding its safety.
| Citation | E Ritter, CAM-Cancer Consortium. Megamin [online document]. http://www.cam-cancer.org/CAM-Summaries/Dietary-approaches/Megamin. October 1, 2008. |
The present documentation has been compiled by the CAM-CANCER Project with all due care and expert knowledge. However, the CAM-CANCER Project provides no assurance, guarantee or promise with regard to the correctness, accuracy, up-to-date status or completeness of the information it contains. This information is designed for health professionals. Readers are strongly advised to discuss the information with their physician. Accordingly, the CAM-CANCER Project shall not be liable for damage or loss caused because anyone relies on the information.
