[TanyaRD]

I should have included Anthracyclines and Podophyllum agents in my above statement too. Alkylating agents, anthracyclines and Podophyllum agents are all groups of chemotherapy agents that produce free radicals. Of course, antioxidants protect against free radical damage thus possibly interfering with the mechanism of action of the chemo agent. Herceptin does not fall into any of these groups, however many other drugs used for breast cancer treatment do fall into these categories. I have to admit that even though Herceptin doesn't fall into these categories I still tend to discourage use of high antioxidant supplements (food ok) during any type of infusional treatment for the mere fact that we just don't know enough to be certain there is no interaction. I am including a list of drugs below just FYI. The list may not be all inclusive.

Alkylating Agents
Cisplatin
Carboplatin
Clorambucil
Carmustine
Cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan)
Busulfan
Ifosfamide

Anthracyclines
Doxorubicin (Adriamycin, Doxil)
Daunorubicin
Epirubicin
Mitomycin
Bleomycin

Podophyllum Agents
Etoposide (VP-16, Vespid)
Teniposide