Creatine in Treating Patients With Cancer-Associated Weight Loss

You may be eligible if

• DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS:
• Histologically or cytologically confirmed cancer other than primary brain cancer
• * Considered incurable with available therapies
• History of weight loss ≥ 5 lbs in 2 months or fewer AND/OR estimated intake of \< 20 cal/kg daily
• Determination by attending physician that weight gain would benefit patient
• Perception by patient that weight loss is a problem
• No symptomatic or untreated brain metastases
• No clinical evidence of ascites
• PATIENT CHARACTERISTICS:
• Age
• 18 and over
• Performance status
• ECOG 0-2
• Life expectancy
• At least 3 months
• Renal
• Creatinine normal
• Cardiovascular
• No poorly controlled congestive heart failure
• No poorly controlled hypertension
• Other
• Able to reliably receive oral medication
• Must be alert and mentally competent
• No known obstruction of the alimentary tract, malabsorption, or intractable vomiting
• No diabetes that is controlled by insulin
• Not pregnant or nursing
• Negative pregnancy test
• Fertile patients must use effective contraception
• PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY:
• Chemotherapy
• Concurrent chemotherapy allowed
• Endocrine therapy
• No other concurrent adrenal corticosteroids, androgens, or progestational agents within 30 days after study entry
• Concurrent short-term dexamethasone for chemotherapy-associated emesis is allowed
• Concurrent inhalant, topical, or optical steroids allowed
• Radiotherapy
• No concurrent radiotherapy to the bowel or stomach
• Other concurrent radiotherapy allowed
• Other
• No prior creatine use
• No concurrent tube feedings or parenteral nutrition