Immunosuppression and antibiotics

[kered]

Should ITP patients who are on long term treatment with immunosuppressants such as MMF carry a supply of antibiotics with them for potential bacterial infections when on holiday? I ask this because those without a spleen are advised to take a daily dose of penicillin or similar broad range antibiotic.

[NickyD]

Do you have a spleen?

[kered in reply to NickyD]

Yes my spleen is intact and I resisted having it removed. At my older age it seemed there were too many complcations . My MMF treatment is very effective with 750mg every 12 hours keeping platelets at about 100, but I know that being older I am more at risk of opportunistic infections. Also having a spleen means my chances of getting a TPO are slim and that I will not be given daily doses of an antibiotic. However because I am 74 I would like carry an emergency supply of an antibiotic for bacterial pneumonia treatment for when I am on holiday.

Derek

[NickyD in reply to kered]

Hi Derek. If you are worried about picking up infections when on holiday, can you ask your GP to give you some antibiotics for going away? I had my spleen out and have to take penicillin twice a day. I too get opportunistic infections and am susceptible to all sorts. Nicky

[kered in reply to NickyD]

Hi Nicky , thank you for your reply. I knew from previous posts that you had had a splenectomy which had not worked and MMF is successful so you have had experience of the consequences of these treatments. My GP is not cooperative about giving a standby supply of antibiotics for emergencies only. Hence my original question. At the last Conference of the IT P Association there were some references made in the general discussion about the differences adopted by the daily use of penicillin(UK) and having an emergency supply only of the drug(USA) for spenectomised patients. I think I shall have to see a more sympathetic Dr who realises that some of us know the difference between bacterial and viral infections. Hope you are enjoying the greater freedom from very regular hospital visits that taking MMF brings Nicky and no nasty side effects.

Derek

[NickyD in reply to kered]

Hi Derek

Not emailed you for AGES.... Can you insist? I dont know what else to suggest. Hope you are well. Nicky