Acyclovir as a Prophylaxis

[Guest guest]

Dr. Furman,

Since there has been much discussion on shingles and

antivirals, I thought I would pose a question that I

have.

I am severely compromised and have had 4 cases of

shingles. My physician and I have decided that I

should use Acyclovir as a prophylactic drug. I am

taking 200mg, 3 times daily.

Will this cause drug resistance as can occur with

antibiotics? I know that I need this drug when

shingles erupt, yet I am attempting to prevent

outbreaks (and help to protect my new grandson from

being exposed by me, and causing chicken pox in him).

I know that I am walking a fine line here. We have

also debated using prophylactic antibiotics and

antifungals, but it is difficult to weigh their

benefits as prophylactics versus the risks of drug

resistance.

I would appreciate your insights. Thank you for your

commitment to the CLL community.

Stacie

PS - I have very low IGG, IGA, and IGM levels (require

monthly IVIG). CD4 count hover at 200 or slightly

below. And I am periodically neutropenic.

In His grip,

Stacie

Current Age 45;

CLL diagnosed at age 33 in 1997 after becoming ill in 1996 at age 32

DISEASE HISTORY:

Multiple Anaphylactic Drug Reactions-Desensitization now required for all drugs

Leukapheresis 1999-2001 to lower WBC levels of over 300,000

Fludarabine + Rituxan (5 days + 1 day) May 2002;

Fludarabine (5 days) Sept. 2003

Fludarabine + Rituxan (4 days + 1 day) April 2004;

RBC transfusions

98% marrow involvement since 1999

Rituxan-4 Weekly Infusions - October 1- October 23, 2004

Singulair-Vitamin D-Green Tea Extract-And Other Supplements Since October 2004

in addition to acupuncture and Chinese Massage

2007 Monthly IVIG begins due to being severely immunocompromised

(Low neutrophils, Low IgG, IgA, and IgM as well as depleted T-Cells)

2008 Used Artemisinin and Butyrate which lowered WBC

Contemplating Next Treatment ...

" For by Me your days will be multiplied and years added unto your life. " -

Proverbs 9:11

My faith and love of God: My source of hope, life, and healing.