Thymus (Allergy Research Group) Each bottle, 75 capsules. Each capsule, 500 mg of lamb-derived thymic tissue. PWHIV are taking 1 capsule 2 to 3 times per day with meals.

Glandulars are basically ground up organs from various animals. These can be derived from thymus, thyroid, liver, spleen or adrenal cortex. While little used in the U.S., they are fairly popular in Europe. They are controversial since the idea is that consuming them results in migration of the cells to the appropriate organ to help provide replenishment to it. This theory suggests that the cells are not species-specific but organ-specific. It may be that some of the hormones and other chemicals found inside these cells are what induce the activity and that they are enough alike between a cow or pig and a human to exert a similar effect.

According to theory, cells are able to be absorbed and appropriately directed toward the organ in need (e.g., thymus glandulars go to the thymus) where they contain all the ingredients (hormones, peptides, enzymes, nutrients) to help restore function. Neonatal glandulars are preferred since they are less likely to contain heavy metals or other toxins. Clinical data to support this theory are non-existent. How oral administration would be successful further stretches credulity.

Note: Glandulars should never be stopped suddenly, but reduced gradually in order to assure a feedback inhibition (decreased productivity) of the gland does not occur. Glandulars from Allergy Research Group are derived from animals raised in New Zealand or Australia, reducing worries about BSE or ìmad cowî disease. These are range-grazed, gov-ernment-inspected animals who are not exposed to pesticides, antibiotics or hormones.

The thymus is the organ where immune cells (CD4 and CD8) are graduated into different varieties. As people age, the thymus shrinks (involutes) and this process is hastened by HIV infection. Whether this product will help to reverse or inhibit that deterioration is not yet known. It is also unclear whether these orally-consumed proteins have any effect on thymic development or if they are simply broken down in the gut during digestion. Indeed, a study showing benefit for cats with FIV (similar in ways to HIV) used a subcutaneous injection which bypasses digestive processes that might break the product down. Anecdotal reports by physicians using thymic protein A suggest improvements in stamina, energy, well-being and the ability to ward off infections. HIV+ or HCV+ people who choose to use this product, should see if it improves CD4 and/or CD8 count. HCV+ people should first evaluate blood work for signs of autoimmune problems and should not use this product if they are present (for example, cryoglobulinemia).

Start by getting your blood work done, stabilize whatever regimen you are on at least four weeks before beginning and then, after starting the product, see what happens with your next blood work. Also, keep a sharp eye on your viral load. Not to be used by those with autoimmune diseases.