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| Interactions
with Astragalus | |
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Because astragalus has antiviral properties, it may potentiate the effects of
medications such as acyclovir and interferon (Upton 1999). Clinical studies in
this area may be
warranted. Cyclophosphamide
A laboratory study investigated the immunomodulatory effects of a partially
purified fraction of astragalus (5.55 mg IV) following exposure to
cyclophosphamide (100 mg/kg IV) in rats (Chu et al. 1988b). Astragalus reversed
the immunosuppressive effects of cyclophosphamide, as demonstrated by increased
rejection of grafted human mononuclear cells. However, results obtained from a
study in rats that used astragalus (240 mg crude extract) with cyclophosphamide
(75 mg/kg IV) found that the herb did not prevent cyclophosphamide-induced
myelosuppression (Khoo and Ang 1995). |
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| References |
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Chu DT, Wong WL, Mavligit GM. Immunotherapy with Chinese medicinal herbs. II.
Reversal of cyclophosphamide-induced immune suppression by administration of
fractionated Astragalus membranaceus in vivo. J Clin Lab Immunol.
1988b;25(3):125-129.
Khoo KS, Ang PT. Extract of Astragalus membranaceus and Ligustrum
lucidum does not prevent cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression.
Singapore Med J. 1995;36:387-390. |
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Copyright © 2000 Integrative Medicine
Communications This publication contains
information relating to general principles
of medical care that should not in any event be construed as specific
instructions for individual patients. The publisher does not accept any
responsibility for the accuracy of the information or the consequences arising
from the application, use, or misuse of any of the information contained herein,
including any injury and/or damage to any person or property as a matter of
product liability, negligence, or otherwise. No warranty, expressed or implied,
is made in regard to the contents of this material. No claims or endorsements
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The reader is advised to check product information (including package inserts)
for changes and new information regarding dosage, precautions, warnings,
interactions, and contraindications before administering any drug, herb, or
supplement discussed herein. | |
