Immune Suppresants and Immune Boosters

[greypup]

If you have to be on an immune suppressant - azathioprine, biologic, etc - is it OK to use immune boosters like Vit C to prevent colds, viruses before and after being exposed to them at school, airplanes, etc?

I thought I read somewhere to be careful not to stimulate the immune system when on the suppressants, but not really sure...

 

[crohnsinct]

Our doc asks that we check with him before using any. Not saying not to...just check.

 

[greypup]

That makes sense to check w/docs.

I'm beginning to feel like I might have made this idea up since there isn't much response???

 

[Tesscorm]

We we're told no to immune boosters. Can't write more now but will b back...

 

[Tesscorm]

Hi greypup, when my son started on remicade, the specialty pharmacist called with instructions and specifically said no immune boosting supplements such as echinacea (sp??), ginseng (even if only in tea), ColdFX, etc. When I asked about his vitamin D and krill oil supplements, she said those were fine and said a rule of thumb would be that supplements of vitamins which you would find in everyday foods, such as vitamin C in oranges, are fine. However, she also recommended calling her (or GI) before starting any new supplements.

I haven't given Stephen any new supplements so this hasn't come up but, I would check before I did start something new.

 

[Brian'sMom]

We used to use zinc. With all the upset stomach from cramps we stopped it because it can cause some nausea. But do check with your GI.

 

[Mehita]

I didn't know about this. What about homeopathic types of things? Before Remicade when DS would have a cold, I'd give him Cold Calm vs Tylenol Cold or some such thing. Is that not a good idea anymore?

Or right now I'm drinking Traditional Medicinal tea for my cold. Would that be bad for him too?

 

[Tesscorm]

our pharmacist specifically said no lemon ginseng tea when explaining about supplements. She explained that it's not that they KNOW it does harm but that they DONT KNOW what the effect on remicade (I am assuming the same applies to other immunosuppressants) when u add an immune booster to a med meant to suppress immune system.

 

[greypup]

Sounds like the EmergenC product might still be ok since it is vitamins found in food. I am a big fan of the Boiron ColdCalm and Oscillium as well. I will call Boiron to find out if they have any more info and ask Mayo while there this coming week.

I wanted my daughter to use some prophylactic-ally before going on plane and into the virus season...

 

[LodgeLady]

What about taking B Complex vitamins? Is that an immune booster?