Huang Qi (Immune Boost)

Description

Indication :
– Chronic illness and Fatigue- Adjunctive Cancer Care- Recovery and Stress Adaptation- Antiinflammatory and Antioxidant
Therapeutic action Huang Qi:- Tonifying Qi (the body’s vital energy), with a particular emphasis on Spleen Qi and Lung Qi- Tonifying Blood- Raising Yang Qi, which is crucial for preventing the “sinking” or prolapse of organs and
maintaining vitality- Benefiting the Lungs to augment Wei Qi (Protective or Defensive Qi) and thereby
strengthen the body’s exterior- defenses against pathogenic factors
Active ingredient :
Huang Qi
Dosage Guidelines :
Cats : <5 kg 1 capsul 1-2x sehari
Dogs :<10 kg 2 capsul 1-2x sehari
Potential Drug Interaction :
1. Immunosuppressants: Astragalus may interact with medications designed to suppress
the immune system, such as corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), cyclosporine,
azathioprine, or tacrolimus. Since Astragalus can enhance immune responses, it could
potentially antagonize or reduce the effectiveness of these immunosuppressive drugs.
This is a critical consideration for animals receiving such medications for autoimmune
diseases, organ transplants, or certain types of cancer.
2. Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Drugs: Astragalus possesses mild anticoagulant
properties and may inhibit platelet aggregation. Therefore, concurrent use with
anticoagulant drugs (e.g., warfarin, heparin, clopidogrel, aspirin, NSAIDs) could
theoretically increase the risk of bleeding or bruising.
3. Antihypertensive Drugs: Astragalus itself can lower blood pressure. When used
concomitantly with conventional antihypertensive medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors like
enalapril, beta-blockers like atenolol, calcium channel blockers like amlodipine), there is a
potential for additive hypotensive effects. This could lead to an undesirable drop in blood
pressure (hypotension), causing weakness, dizziness, or syncope. Blood pressure
monitoring may be warranted.
4. Diuretics: Astragalus may have mild diuretic properties. If used with potent diuretic drugs
(e.g., furosemide, spironolactone), there could be an additive effect, potentially leading to
excessive fluid loss or electrolyte imbalances. Monitoring hydration status and electrolytes
might be necessary.
5. Hormonal Therapies: Some constituents of Astragalus may possess mild estrogenic
properties. While the clinical relevance is not fully understood, there is a theoretical
possibility that it might interfere with hormonal therapies, such as those used for certain
types of cancer or reproductive disorders. Caution is advised, particularly with conditions
sensitive to hormonal influence.
Contraindication :
While generally safe, there are specific situations and conditions where the use of Huang Qi in
animals is contraindicated or requires particular caution:
1. Autoimmune Diseases: Astragalus, as it might theoretically worsen symptoms by stimulating
an already overactive immune system. The risk may depend on the specific autoimmune
condition, the current state of immune activity (e.g., acute flare vs. remission). The decision to
use Huang Qi in an animal with adiagnosed autoimmune disease requires careful veterinary
assessment and athorough understanding of its potential to either beneficially modulate or, in
somecases, detrimentally stimulate the immune response.
2. Pregnancy and Lactation: Some research in animals (laboratory models) has suggested
potential toxicity to the developing fetus during pregnancy. Consequently, it is generally
recommended that pregnant and nursing dogs (and other animal species) should avoid
Astragalus supplementation unless specifically advised and monitored by a veterinarian.
3. Surgery/Anesthesia: “Not for use within 48 hours of surgery/anesthesia”