the Impact of Herbal Medicine on Cancer Treatment and Side Effects

Q: the Impact of Herbal Medicine on Cancer Treatment and Side Effects

Dear Miss Len,<br>1. <br>The side effects of Avastin： The more common adverse reactions include headache, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, stomatitis, constipation, upper respiratory infections, epistaxis, dyspnea, and proteinuria. <br>Severe adverse reactions may include hypertensive

Medicinal cuisine

Dear Dr.
Wu,
Do not say sorry! You are like my spiritual mentor, and receiving your answers brings me a lot of comfort.
I am grateful to you, but I am very afraid of wasting your precious time.
I am also worried about running out of medication.
After my last chemotherapy, I started Avastin and Zometa.
I suspect that my panic attacks may be related to Avastin, as I experience weakness in my limbs and restlessness during the infusion (I felt this way during chemotherapy before my recurrence as well).
A few days after the infusion, I developed a fever, and while hospitalized, I was very concerned about the onset of panic attacks, but fortunately, it did not happen.

I have previously taken medicinal meals that can boost immunity and detoxify, and many people I know have testified that after consuming them for years, they never catch a cold.
However, since they are not cancer patients, I worried that it might nourish cancer cells, so I stopped taking them midway.
Recently, I plan to take a chance and try consuming them during chemotherapy to see if it affects my white blood cell count.
However, after taking them, I feel dizzy and nauseous.
My boss says it’s due to detoxification, and after vomiting, I feel much lighter.
I wonder what your thoughts are on this?
May I ask:
1.
Can Avastin cause restlessness?
2.
Is it possible for medicinal meals to nourish cancer cells?
Thank you for taking the time to answer so many of my questions.
I am grateful.

len, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/07/14

Dr. Wu Jingtang reply Breast and Thyroid

Dear Miss Len,
1.
The side effects of Avastin: The more common adverse reactions include headache, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, stomatitis, constipation, upper respiratory infections, epistaxis, dyspnea, and proteinuria.
Severe adverse reactions may include hypertensive crisis, vascular embolism, nephrotic syndrome, bleeding, gastrointestinal perforation, impaired wound healing, and congestive heart failure.
2.
Can herbal medicine potentially nourish cancer cells? In fact, using traditional Chinese medicine to alleviate some side effects is feasible.
However, I recommend that a licensed traditional Chinese medicine practitioner tailor the treatment based on individual conditions and the characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Wu Ching-Tang
Attending Surgeon, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health

Reply Date: 2008/07/14

More Info

The concerns you have regarding the impact of herbal medicine and the side effects of chemotherapy drugs like Avastin are quite valid, especially for someone undergoing cancer treatment. Let's break down your questions and provide a comprehensive understanding of these issues.

1. Side Effects of Avastin
Avastin (bevacizumab) is a monoclonal antibody that is used in the treatment of various cancers, including colorectal, lung, and breast cancer. It works by inhibiting angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. While Avastin can be effective, it does come with a range of potential side effects.
Common side effects include:
- Fatigue: Many patients report feeling unusually tired.

- Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur.

- Hypertension: Avastin can cause high blood pressure, which may lead to headaches or dizziness.

- Risk of bleeding: Some patients may experience nosebleeds or other bleeding complications.

- Neurological effects: In rare cases, patients may experience symptoms like confusion or difficulty concentrating, which could contribute to feelings of anxiety or panic.

The sensation of restlessness or difficulty sitting still that you mentioned could be related to anxiety or a side effect of the medication. It's essential to communicate these symptoms to your healthcare provider, as they may need to adjust your treatment plan or provide supportive care to help manage these feelings.

2. Concerns About Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine can be a double-edged sword in cancer treatment. While some herbal supplements may offer benefits, such as boosting the immune system or alleviating certain side effects, there are significant concerns about their use, particularly in cancer patients.

- Potential Interactions: Herbal supplements can interact with chemotherapy drugs, potentially reducing their effectiveness or increasing toxicity. For example, some herbs may enhance the metabolism of chemotherapy drugs, leading to lower drug levels in the body, while others may have blood-thinning properties that could increase the risk of bleeding when combined with certain cancer treatments.

- Nutritional Considerations: While some herbal remedies are believed to support immune function, there is a risk that they could inadvertently stimulate cancer cell growth. This is particularly concerning if the herbal product has properties that promote cell proliferation or angiogenesis.

- Quality and Regulation: Unlike pharmaceuticals, herbal products are not as strictly regulated, which means their quality and concentration can vary widely. This inconsistency can lead to unpredictable effects and side effects.

3. Managing Side Effects and Anxiety
Given your experiences with anxiety and the physical side effects of treatment, it's crucial to adopt a holistic approach to your care. Here are some strategies:
- Open Communication: Always discuss any supplements or herbal remedies you are considering with your oncologist. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits based on your specific treatment plan.

- Supportive Care: Consider integrating supportive therapies such as counseling, mindfulness, or yoga to help manage anxiety and improve your overall well-being.

- Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support your body during treatment. If you are considering herbal supplements, consult a registered dietitian who specializes in oncology nutrition.

- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a journal of your symptoms, including any side effects from medications or herbal remedies. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare team in managing your treatment effectively.

In conclusion, while herbal medicine may offer some benefits, it is essential to approach it with caution, especially in the context of cancer treatment. Always prioritize communication with your healthcare providers to ensure that your treatment plan is safe and effective.

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