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Are Immune Boosters A Waste Of Time For People On Immunosuppressants?

Last night I was looking into buying some foods and supplements to boost my immune system.

But I suddenly had a thought - as I am taking medication to purposely suppress my immune system would this contradict everything and actually risk making my condition worse?

Apologies if this sounds like a drunken 3am thought but I thought I would just check if I was about to waste my time and money!

  1. As has been said the Immunosuppressants of today are relatively strongly targeted. As you dial back into the history of AS medications, the further one goes the less targeted they are. So a medication like methotrexate is more broad-based than the most recent medications. That does not mean if you take MTX you should be concerned. I can not answer that but your doctor likely can. I doubt that there is any kind of conflict, but if you have a concern reaching out to your doctor is best.............................. rick (moderator)

    1. that makes a lot of sense, thanks for sharing! Unfortunately I also take Methotrexate as my body was kind enough to give me RA as well, so I will make a call to my doctor before I engulf on any kind of supplement binge!


      Thanks for the advice,
      James (Community Member)

  2. The science says that your medication is only limiting a part of your immune system, therefore the other parts of the immune system could use a boost. I'm not a scientist so would suggest asking your rheumy before taking a trolley into Holland and Barrett

    1. that actually makes a lot of sense thank you very much for sharing! I'll definitely give my rheumy a call before I go on a shopping spree!


      Best wishes,
      James (Community Member)

  3. Hey


    Unfortunately I do not have the answer to this.


    But hey if it makes you feel any better I have thoughts like this sometimes too!


    All the best,
    Ali (Community Member)




    1. I'm glad it isn't just me who thinks like this haha!


      It is a confusing one though, just thought I would check before I end up accidentally wasting a lot of money on something that may end up making me feel worse!


      Best wishes,
      James (Community Member)

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