Acute Pain Relief After Mantram Meditation in Children With Neuroblastoma Undergoing Anti-GD2 Monoclonal Antibody Therapy

Abstract

Nonpharmacologic, mind-body interventions are used to reduce anxiety in pediatric patients. Anti-ganglioside GD2 monoclonal antibody (anti-GD2 MoAb 3F8) therapy is the standard of care for high-risk neuroblastoma and pain is its major side effect. We performed a retrospective analysis of children undergoing anti-GD2 MoAb 3F8 treatment who received guided meditation. Meditation involved concentrating on the repetition of rhythmic, melodic sounds purported to slow breathing and induce a relaxation response. A total of 71% patients completed a session at first (n=19) or second attempt (n=5). Patients received fewer analgesic doses to manage anti-GD2 MoAb 3F8-induced pain when participating in meditation (n=17, mean=−0.4 dose, P<0.01). Mantram meditation is a feasible outpatient intervention associated with reduced analgesic requirements.