Inquiring About Oxaloacetate
Greetings! I am seeking guidance regarding Oxaloacetate. I've come across several encouraging, albeit mostly anecdotal, accounts highlighting its potential benefits in enhancing life quality and boosting energy for those with M.E.. I was considering initiating treatment with a modest dose of 100mg and gradually increasing it. Is this a safe starting point? Are there any potential negative interactions with my current medications? I am a 34-year-old female, standing at 5'3" and weighing approximately 60kg. I have been diagnosed with: M.E., Fibromyalgia, IBS, PoTS, Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD. I also suspect having Endometriosis and/or PCOS, hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and OCD. My current medications include: - 20mg of Amitriptyline each day - 30mg of Mirtazapine daily On a daily basis, I also take: - A multivitamin that includes Vitamin A, D, E, C, Niacin, B6, and B12. - Iron tablets providing 11mg of heme iron (my last ferritin measurement was 24). - 450mg of Black Garlic combined with Vitamin B1. - One Lucozade Sport drink and one 'Liquid IV' supplement each day, which features sodium, potassium, Vitamin C, Niacin, and B vitamins B5, B6, and B12. Additionally, I would like to know if taking all these supplements and medications simultaneously is safe. I strive to ensure I am below any daily maximum intake, but cognitive difficulties often complicate this process. For further context: - My blood pressure is stable at 120/78. - My resting heart rate is approximately 90 beats per minute when seated, though it decreases when I lie down. However, it often spikes to the high 120s or low 130s when standing or after walking a short distance. I experience daily spikes reaching 140-150 bpm at least once. Currently, my M.E. symptoms are quite severe, with the onset dating back to 2008. I maintain a nutritious and balanced diet but frequently face sugar cravings. I abstain from alcohol and caffeine and do not use illegal substances. I am a moderate smoker and recognize the need to quit. Any insights or recommendations would be immensely helpful! Due to my low energy levels, it's increasingly challenging for me to visit my GP regularly.
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 4:40:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing such detailed information about your health and current situation. It’s understandable to seek potential options for improving your quality of life, especially when managing multiple conditions. Here’s a focused response regarding oxaloacetate and your existing medications and supplements.
Key Points:
- Oxaloacetate Safety: While oxaloacetate may have some anecdotal benefits, its use in conditions like M.E. (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis) is not yet firmly established in clinical research.
- Potential Interactions: Given your current medications and supplements, it's important to be cautious about interactions.
- Symptom Monitoring: Keeping track of your symptoms and any changes when introducing new supplements will be crucial.
Explanation:
Oxaloacetate is a compound involved in metabolism and has been studied for various health benefits, though most research involves animal studies rather than human trials. Starting at a low dose, like 100 mg, can be a prudent way to assess your tolerance. However, it's not widely recommended or studied for M.E. specifically, and the efficacy can vary greatly among individuals.
Considering your medications (Amitriptyline and Mirtazapine) and other supplements, while oxaloacetate generally has low toxicity, there are no definitive studies detailing its interaction with your current regimen. It's paramount to ensure that you monitor any changes in your symptoms, mood, or side effects as you introduce it. Your combination of antidepressants suggests sensitivity to medication changes, so any new addition should be approached slowly.
Next Steps:
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Begin with Caution: If you choose to start oxaloacetate, begin with 100 mg, but monitor how you feel closely. Keep a journal to log any changes in energy levels, mood, or physical symptoms.
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Interactions Check: Review the ingredients in your multivitamin and other supplements. Pay attention to the amounts of B vitamins and iron to avoid exceeding daily limits, especially because you're already taking multiples from different sources.
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Assessment of Current Medications: Given your combination of medications and the potential for increased heart rate, it may be beneficial to assess the overall necessity and dosage with your healthcare provider, whenever you can. Consider telehealth options if visiting in person is challenging.
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Energy Management: Since low energy is a daily challenge, experiment with pacing your activities, and ensure plenty of rest. Simple activities, like stretching or gentle walks, may help manage symptoms without feeling overwhelming.
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Quit Smoking Support: Consider using resources to help outweigh your desire to quit smoking. This step can profoundly impact your overall health and energy levels.
If possible, I encourage you to find a healthcare professional who can support you remotely or look for community support resources that can help you track your wellness journey, given your challenges in visiting your GP. You're taking a commendable step in advocating for your own health, and together we can navigate these complexities.
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