Kefir - Alemtuzumab Interaction Details

Interaction Details

Alemtuzumab is classified as belonging to the following category: Immunosuppressants

Kefir contains actively growing bacteria and yeast. Theoretically, patients taking immunosuppressant therapy might be more likely to develop an infection from these organisms. Use with caution in patients taking cyclosporine (Sandimmune, Neoral), azathioprine (Imuran), tacrolimus (FK506, Prograf), and others.

Interaction Rating

Moderate

Likelihood of Occurrence

Possible

Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists

References

Murofushi M, Mizuguchi J, Aibara K, Matuhasi T. Immunopotentiative effect of polysaccharide from kefir grain, KGF-C, administered orally in mice. Immunopharmacology 1986;12:29-35.
Shiomi M, Sasaki K, Murofushi M, Aibara K. Antitumor activity in mice of orally administered polysaccharide from Kefir grain. Jpn J Med Sci Biol 1982;35:75-80.
Rimada PS, Abraham AG. Polysaccharide production by kefir grains during whey fermentation. J Dairy Res 2001;68:653-61.
De Vrese M, Keller B, Barth CA. Enhancement of intestinal hydrolysis of lactose by microbial beta-galactosidase (EC 3.2.1.23) of kefir. Br J Nutr 1992;67:67-75.

Alemtuzumab Overview

Alemtuzumab injection is used to treat B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL; a slowly developing cancer in which too many of a certain type of white blood cell accumulate in the body). Alemtuzumab is in a class of medications called monoclonal antibodies. It works by activating the immune system to destroy cancer cells.
Alemtuzumab is also available as an injection (Lemtrada) that is used to treat multiple sclerosis (a disease in which the nerves do not function properly; you may experience weakness, numbness, loss of muscle coordination and problems with vision, speech, and bladder control). This monograph only gives information about alemtuzumab injection (Campath) for B-CLL. If you are receiving alemtuzumab for multiple sclerosis, read the monograph entitled Alemtuzumab Injection (Multiple Sclerosis).

See More Information Regarding Alemtuzumab Injection (Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia)

Kefir - More Interactions

Kefir interacts with 112 drugs

Interaction Rating Key

These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.

Major	The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur.
Moderate	Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur.
Minor	Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction.
Unknown	No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available.