Campath – uses, health risks, and side effects at NaturalPedia.com

Friday, August 24, 2018 by Zoey Sky

Campath, an antibody made from animal DNA, is used to treat chronic B-cell lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL). The drug is also given to patients with relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis.

Campath’s generic name is alemtuzumab. Its brand names include Lemtrada, which is only available from a certified pharmacy via a special program.

Known health risks or side effects of Campath

Campath may cause common side effects such as:

Anxiety, headache
Appetite loss, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
Insomnia/sleep problems
Joint or muscle pain
Mild itching or rash

You may require immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects such as:

Body aches, chills, fever, flu symptoms, sores in your mouth and throat, sweating, weight loss
Bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Changes in behavior, convulsions/seizure, or vision problems
Confusion or weakness, dark colored urine, pale or yellowed skin
A cough with yellow or green mucus, gasping
Feeling tired, light-headedness, or shortness of breath; rapid heart rate; trouble concentrating
Itching, oozing, redness, swelling, tingling, or warmth of the skin
Skin that bruises easily, unusual bleeding (e.g., bleeding gums, nosebleed), purple or red pinpoint spots under the skin

List of organs that might be affected by Campath

An overdose of Campath may cause complications like an allergic reaction. Signs of an allergic reaction may include difficulty breathing; hives; or the swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

If you think you’ve taken too much of this drug, consult a healthcare professional. If your symptoms are severe, go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Food items or nutrients that have similar effects to Campath

The following foods or nutrients have similar effects to Campath:

Green tea – Green tea extracts can help patients with early-stage leukemia. Green tea contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), an extract that can eliminate CLL cells.
Vitamin D – Vitamin D deficiencies in patients with CLL is associated with cancer progression.
Wheatgrass – Wheatgrass contains chlorophyll that’s similar to the hemoglobin molecule in the blood. Hemoglobin helps build red blood cells and deliver oxygen, along with other nutrients, to the cells in the body.

Treatment and management options for the side effects of Campath

The following treatments and management options can help prevent the side effects associated with Campath:

BRAT diet/eating certain foods – The “BRAT” diet, which includes bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, can help firm up your stool. Other foods to eat when you’re suffering from diarrhea include baked chicken (with the skin removed), baked or boiled potatoes (with the skin peeled), chicken soup (this will help with rehydration), and oatmeal.
Ginger – Ginger can help treat dizziness and nausea. It can stimulate blood flow to the brain and other parts of the body, which will help minimize the intensity of your dizziness. Chew a small slice of fresh ginger root or suck on ginger candies if you feel dizzy. You can also drink ginger ale or ginger tea several times a day to prevent dizziness.
Lemon – Lemon can also help remedy dizziness. The citrus fruit contains vitamin C that strengthens the immune system. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a glass of water then add two teaspoons of sugar and mix well. Drink the juice to relieve dizziness.