Effectiveness and safety of adjunctive traditional Chinese medicine therapy for constipation after cancer chemotherapy: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: As an alternative for constipation after cancer chemotherapy, Chinese medicine has gradually attracted the attention of clinicians based on the theory of syndrome differentiation and treatment. However, due to the lack of evidence-based medical evidence, the author designed the program to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Chinese medicine. METHODS: From the beginning to August 2020, 8 electronic databases will be searched. Two of our researchers will independently conduct research selection, data extraction, and risk assessment of bias. We will use Review Manager 5.3 software for meta-analysis and heterogeneity assessment. In addition, we will use the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation to evaluate the evidence quality. RESULTS: This study will demonstrate an evidence-based review of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for constipation after cancer chemotherapy. CONCLUSION: The study will provide clear evidence to assess the effectiveness and side effects of TCM for constipation after cancer chemotherapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: INPLASY202070027