Breast cancer can be treated with a variety of drugs and medication, and some patients choose to use complementary and alternative medicine in addition to their traditional treatment. Iscador is a complementary cancer medication that is used in Europe to help treat breast and other types of cancers in addition to standard treatments. It is not yet used in the United States, except in research studies. If you are interested in Iscador to help treat your breast cancer, consult with your oncologist and treatment team about whether this may be beneficial for you.
What is Iscador?
Iscador is made by Weleda and is an alternative cancer treatment taken from the mistletoe plant. According to the National Cancer Institute, mistletoe is one of the most studied complementary and alternative treatments for cancer. In Europe, mistletoe cancer treatments, including Iscador, are some of the most prescribed treatments for cancer patients. It is only given by prescription and is generally used to complement both traditional and alternative cancer treatments. Mistletoe extracts have been recommended for use in helping treat cancers of the cervix, breast, stomach, colon and lung, as well as leukemia and lymphoma, and sarcoma, says the American Cancer Society.
How Does Iscador Work?
Studies have found that mistletoe may increase the amount of white blood cells, as well as increase their activity, thus strengthening the immune system, says the National Cancer Institute. The majority of studies on Iscador and mistletoe have been in Europe. Different studies have yielded different results, depending on the way the mistletoe extract was administered, the dosage and the type of extract used, as well as the type of cancer cells. Studies have found that Iscador, combined with traditional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation, showed low toxicity and improved quality of life for cancer patients, but much of the data is still being analyzed, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Benefits and Side Effects
The website for Iscador claims that this drug improves appetite and weight gain, helps restore normal sleep patterns, improves quality of life, inhibits tumor growth and reduces the risk of recurrence and metastases. While the National Cancer Institute concurs that some improvements have been seen, more studies need to be done to fully evaluate the benefits of this drug in the United States. While there have been few reports of serious side effects, mild side effects can include redness at the injection site, headaches, fever and chills. The American Cancer Society warns that some medications can have adverse interactions with mistletoe, especially blood pressure and heart medications.
Considerations
Right now, the use of Iscador and mistletoe extract for breast cancer and any kind of cancer is not allowed in the United States, except in closely monitored clinical trials and research studies. The Food and Drug Administration has not approved using Iscador for any medical condition, says the National Cancer Institute. Consuming mistletoe as a plant can be dangerous, as it is poisonous and can cause coma or death. If you are interested in participating in a clinical trial with Iscador, talk to your oncologist about whether this is an option for you.
