any info on pettalive c caps... thanks

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  Huang Qi (Astragalus membranaceous) is well known in traditional Chinese medicine. More recent research has highlighted the ability of this remedy to support the functioning of the immune system. Astragalus also helps to support vitality and a healthy appetite and maintain regular water metabolism. Currently, much of the pharmacological research on Astragalus is focused on its immuno-supportive polysaccharides and other active ingredients useful in supporting a healthy immune system. (Wang DC. “Influence of Astragalus membranaceus (AM) polysaccharide FB on immunologic function of human periphery blood lymphocyte”. Zhonghua Zhong Liu Za Zhi 1989;11:180-183).
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  Mistletoe (Viscum album) is used to support normal blood pressure and maintain a healthy immune system. Viscum album has been widely tested in both human and animal studies with many positive findings. In a recent study, it was determined that cellular components of the body's natural immune system (such as monocytes and granulocytes) bound Viscum album agglutinin-I molecules to a higher degree than lymphocytes, suggesting that this herb can support natural immune responses. (Hajto T, Hostanska K, Fischer J, Saller R. “Immunomodulatory effects of Viscum album agglutinin-I on natural immunity”. Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital Zürich, Switzerland. PMID: 9179367).
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  Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) is well known for its excellent benefits for immune functioning. Echinacea is also effective as a tonic for the lymphatic system. Regular use can help to keep your pet healthy. Over 500 scientific studies have been documented on this herb. Specific studies have investigated the immune-supportive action of Echinacea (Barrett BP, Brown RL, Locken K, et al. “Treatment of the common cold with unrefined Echinacea: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial”. Ann Intern Med 2002; Dec 17, 137(12):939-946).
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  Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is one of the most important Ayurvedic tonic herbs, supporting growth, health and vigor. Regular use can help to nourish the blood and support healthy hemoglobin levels. This herb is often recommended as a strengthening and restorative tonic and has been shown to have a tonic effect on the immune system. (Davis L, Kuttan G. “Immunomodulatory activity of Withania somnifera”. J Ethnopharmacol 2000; 71:193-200.)
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  Milk Thistle (Sylibum marianus) contains a flavonoid complex called silymarin, which is largely responsible for the therapeutic benefits of this herb. Silymarin is a powerful anti-oxidant and its positive effect on maintaining healthy liver functioning would have a direct impact on the overall systemic health of your pet as the liver is one of the most important organs in the body. (Pares A, Planas R, Torres M, et al. “Effects of silymarin in alcoholic patients with cirrhosis of the liver: results of a controlled, double-blind, randomized and multicenter trial.” J Hepatol 1998; 28(4):615-621.)(Benda L, Dittrich H, Ferenzi P, et al.”The influence of therapy with silymarin on the survival rate of patients with liver cirrhosis (author's transl)”. Wien Klin Wochenschr 1980; 92(19):678-683.) Milk Thistle is also regarded as a potent antioxidant.
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  Cat's Claw (Uncaria tormentosa) has been used by the natives of Peru for hundreds of years. Cat's Claw boasts many therapeutic benefits, among them its supportive role in maintaining immune system strength. It has been studied for its ability to support healthy cells. (Rizzi, R., Re, F., Bianchi, A., De, Feo, V, De Simone, F., Bianchi, L., and Stivala, L. A. “Mutagenic and antimutagenic activities of Uncaria tomentosa and its extracts.” J.Ethnopharmacol. 1993;38(1):63-77)
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  Rice Powder (inactive ingredient)

LDG said:

Shoot. I just wrote out an entire reply, addressing the contribution and contraindications of each component of the medication.

The bottom line? I would normally provide a similar warning. But there are two considerations here:

1) The kitty has an aggressive cancer, and the pred is being given simply to make Max comfortable. :heart2:

2) I have a holistic vet trained in Chinese Medicine and a cat that had aggressive large cell lymphoma. We opted for chemo and it worked. But We discussed supporting care, and I was familiar with all of these (and others) other than the mistletoe (Viscum album) in relation to cancer. ALL of these are contra-indicated if using chemotherapy, but in the absences of such treatment, each provides either adjunct anti-inflammatory support, activates t-cell production, provides liver support, or tonic / GI system support. Only Astralagus would be contra-indicated if the pred were being used at immune-suppressive doses - which is not the dosage of pred when being used as medication for cancer, it's provided at a dose for treating inflammation.

Some are contraindicated with other medications (ashwaganda, with sedatives, like valium or ativan, etc.).

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