Hello everyone, I am new to the board and the disease. I was diagnosed last summer with Crohns and am currently on 100mg a day Imuran (have been since October). I am 30 years old, scared to death of the side effects of Imuran, fair skinned (even more scared of the skin cancer risk too). While the Imuran has helped with the number of bowel movements a day (1-2) and has eliminated any bleeding, it has not gotten rid of my fistula which just recently formed another opening. I talked my doctor into prescribing LDN at 4.5 mg a day, and she told me that she was ok with me trying LDN as long as I stayed on my current Imuran dosage. In fact, she was adamant that I not stop it. I was under the impression that Imuran and LDN cancel each other out. Can anyone help correct my thinking on the two drugs. Thanks!
Of course she told you to stay on it, that's all doctors suggest for treatment these days and these drugs are huge money makers. This is a pet peeve of mine that I have with most GI doctors.
Imuran is a totally different drug compared to LDN, in the way it effects the chemistry in our body. The link to my blog is under this comment, if not go to my profile page and on the side bar, I have links that discuss LDN (general facts, how it works, the conditions it treats ect). I'll also give you a few links that will clarify the 2 for you.
WHen it comes to your doctors' suggestion and your concerns, I would express to her exactly what you stated here. It's your body, you will be the one living with the possible side effects, not her. Explain that to her and that you would like to safely ween off Imuran and try the LDN since it's SAFE, affordable and effective. Reassure her that this would be a trial period with the LDn and if you get sick, you agree to go back on Imuran.
Remember, you have the right to change your mind at any time and that you need to do what is right for you and be proactive with doctors. It's your body that you have to protect. Be well informed and do your research though. Bring it with you to appointments too. They'll know you're serious AND making an informed decision too.
& if it doesn't work out with your doctor and the LDN, there are ways to obtain it if you feel confident enough.
These are all mt blogs that discuss LDN. Check them out.
http://ahhhhhihavecrohnsdisease.blogspot.com/search/label/LDN
