Our Summary

This research paper studies whether a drug called lisdexamfetamine can help improve cognitive functioning, like attention and memory, in women who are at genetic risk for cancer and have undergone a type of surgery called risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy. This surgery can sometimes result in cognitive difficulties.

The study involved 69 participants who were given either the drug or a placebo in 6-week trials, with a 2-week break in between. They were tested at the beginning, middle, and end of the trials using a self-report measure of executive functioning (a type of cognitive ability), as well as cognitive tasks related to attention, working memory, and verbal learning/memory. They were also monitored for side effects.

The results showed that the drug significantly improved the scores on the self-report measure and the cognitive tasks, compared to the placebo. Although more participants reported side effects during the drug trial than the placebo trial, the rates of completing the trial were similar, meaning the drug was generally well-tolerated.

The conclusion is that lisdexamfetamine could potentially be a treatment option for women who experience cognitive difficulties after this type of surgery.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of the drug lisdexamfetamine in this study?
  2. What were the side effects experienced by participants during the trial of lisdexamfetamine?
  3. Did the study find lisdexamfetamine to be a potential treatment for cognitive difficulties after risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy?

Doctor’s Tip

One tip that a doctor might give a patient about salpingo-oophorectomy is to discuss any potential cognitive difficulties or changes in memory and attention that may occur after the surgery. It is important to be aware of these possible side effects and to seek help if needed. Additionally, patients should consider discussing with their doctor the possibility of trying medications like lisdexamfetamine to help improve cognitive functioning if necessary.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended salpingo-oophorectomy are those at a high risk for developing ovarian or fallopian tube cancer, such as those with a family history of these cancers, a mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene, or a personal history of breast cancer. Additionally, women with certain gynecological conditions, such as ovarian cysts or endometriosis, may also be recommended for this surgery.

Overall, the study suggests that lisdexamfetamine may be a promising option for improving cognitive functioning in women who have undergone salpingo-oophorectomy and are experiencing cognitive difficulties. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to determine the long-term effects and safety of using this drug in this population.

Timeline

Before the salpingo-oophorectomy:

  • Patient undergoes genetic testing to determine if they are at risk for cancer
  • Patient discusses treatment options with healthcare provider
  • Patient decides to undergo risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy
  • Patient schedules surgery and prepares for the procedure

After the salpingo-oophorectomy:

  • Patient undergoes surgery to remove the fallopian tubes and ovaries
  • Patient may experience physical side effects such as pain, fatigue, and changes in hormone levels
  • Patient may experience emotional side effects such as anxiety or depression
  • Patient may begin to experience cognitive difficulties such as problems with attention and memory
  • Patient may be prescribed lisdexamfetamine to help improve cognitive functioning
  • Patient participates in a clinical trial to test the effectiveness of the drug
  • Patient undergoes cognitive testing before, during, and after the trial
  • Patient experiences improvements in cognitive functioning with the drug
  • Patient may experience side effects from the drug, but they are generally well-tolerated
  • Patient and healthcare provider discuss the results of the trial and determine next steps for treatment.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a salpingo-oophorectomy and why is it recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential cognitive difficulties that can occur after a salpingo-oophorectomy?
  3. How common are cognitive difficulties after this surgery?
  4. What are the potential benefits of taking lisdexamfetamine for cognitive functioning after a salpingo-oophorectomy?
  5. What are the potential side effects of lisdexamfetamine?
  6. How long would I need to take lisdexamfetamine for it to be effective?
  7. Are there any alternative treatment options for cognitive difficulties after a salpingo-oophorectomy?
  8. How will my progress be monitored if I decide to take lisdexamfetamine?
  9. Are there any contraindications for taking lisdexamfetamine based on my medical history or current medications?
  10. What are the potential long-term effects of taking lisdexamfetamine for cognitive functioning after a salpingo-oophorectomy?

Reference

Authors: Metcalf CA, Page CE, Stocker BOS, Johnson RL, Duffy KA, Sammel MD, Loughead J, Epperson CN. Journal: Gynecol Oncol. 2024 Nov;190:62-69. doi: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2024.07.689. Epub 2024 Aug 14. PMID: 39146756