Immunosuppressant Drugs and Echinacea

[Guest guest]

There has been much discussion recently about the biologic RA drugs

and their tendency to cause increased infections (Respiratory, Sinus

etc). I am on Abatacept (drug being studied for RA) and I had my

second infusion on Tuesday. I went to the Dr. today because I am

sick, and they said that I have a respiratory infection. I had been

on Enbrel for over 2 years with no problems. Teh Dr. started me on

an antibiotic.

My father said I should take echinacea to help me get better. My

question is this. If we take drugs that intentionally supress our

immune system, because that is what is needed to treat our RA, is

there any point in taking echinacea which is supposed to help boost

out immune system?

It seems like a silly question, but which is stronger? The drug to

boost the immune system or the one intentionally supressing it? If

I take echinacea, will it lessen the effects of the biologic drug?

Anyone have any ideas or thoughts on this?

Thanks,

Miriam