Beta Glucan interactions with cancer drugs

[CarmenLuisa]

Can the Beta Glucans and AHCC be taken along with Calquence or Acalabrutinib?

[AussieNeil Administrator]

I'm glad you asked! In general, because possible interactions aren't necessarily studied, it's wise to only continue with any supplements with CLL, particularly when undergoing treatment after checking with your specialist. Sometimes interactions might be helpful, but often they interfere.

From all that I have read, in general, it is wise to avoid any substances like Beta Glucans and AHCC that stimulate the immune system when you have CLL. That's because where good evidence exists for a substance's effectiveness, it's usually through lymphocyte stimulation. We already have more than enough lymphocytes and CLL stimulation could worsen CLL related fatigue and increase the rate of CLL growth.

Can I ask who recommended you take Beta Glucans and AHCC? There's good evidence that about 1% of us have CLL which is strongly driven by beta glucans from fungal sources.

Your question is specifically about Acalabrutinib/Calquence, one of the approved BTK inhibitors for cancerous B-lymphoctes, CLL cells. I'm not aware of any specific research on this combination, but lacking that, it doesn't make sense to possibly negate the inhibitory effects of your treatment drug with a counter stimulating effect!

Neil