Medical Condition Library

Information Centers

Wellness Centers

Helpful Resources

Active Hexose Correlated Compound

Home | Health Information Center | Natural & Alternative Treatments | Herbs & Supplements | Article

Introduction

Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC) is a supplement made from certain mushrooms, such as shiitake. It has been used to help ease symptoms caused by chemotherapy. It can be taken as a powder or a pill.

Dosages

2 to 6 grams once daily

What Research Shows

May Be Effective

Pancreatic cancer treatment—may improve symptoms of taste disorder caused by chemotherapyA1

Editorial process and description of evidence categories can be found at EBSCO NAT Editorial Process.

Safety Notes

It is likely safe to take small amounts of AHCC. Not enough studies have been done to say whether it is safe to use for a long period.

Interactions

Talk to your doctor about any supplements or therapy you would like to use. Some can interfere with treatment or make conditions worse.

References►

A1. 1. Yanagimoto H, Satoi S, et al. Alleviating Effect of Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC) on Chemotherapy-Related Adverse Events in Patients with Unresectable Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Nutr Cancer. 2016;68(2):234-240.

Last reviewed March 2019 by EBSCO NAT Review Board Eric Hurwitz, DC
Last Updated: 3/2/2019

EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days.