[E. Crum, RN]

Just a clarifier to Lynda Garland's post: Immunoglobulins (IG) such as those found in the varicella-zoster vaccine are actually a type of protein found in plasma, and are "minor fractions." Those who refuse blood based on religions like Jehovah's Witnesses regard fractions as conscience matters.

I agree that it is very hard even for professionals to tease out what many drugs are made from, particularly if they contain hormones which may be made from either plant or animal (including human) sources. Sometimes one word in pages of information reveals the source. Maybe if enough people contact drug companies with this question they will start to state the information more clearly.

[jwsnoblood]

Can you tell me when this guide will be ready and how can I get one?

Thanks

[jgrossberg]

Actually, the Guide is still under construction. It will be presented as a separate NoBlood forum. I had to set my prior work on the Guide aside for awhile for a couple of reasons: "work" and "life". Then the site remodel began in earnest, but now that it's pretty much complete, I can start work on the Guide again. Hopefully I will have a partial listing up and running in the next month. I will probably be looking for a volunteer NoBlood member(s) to assist in this.

[rettere2002]

This is most helpful to me in making my decisions about the use of medications. Thank you so very much for your research and input...it is vital to me!!

It is so crucial to be properly informed on medication decisions.

[Bree]

Hi,
Im wondering how far along you are on the guide?

[jeanlowe]

Thankyou for great information! I need to keep up with current developments. Was surprised about botox.

[E. Crum, RN]

A drug called Romiplostim (Nplate®) came out last year, and is used to stimulate platelet production. This medication contains human immunoglobulin.

[Cody]

Hello. I'm new to NoBlood, but wanted to say what a great idea this is. I was given a Rhogham shot when I was pregnant not knowing that it was made up of a blood component. After I had my son, the nurse who went in to deliver the second does of Rhogham looked at my "no blood" medical bracelet and smirked and said " why are you taking Rhogham?" I wasn't a JW then, but still refused blood, I had this stated on my medical charts, but my doctor gave me the shot anyways. Now I know to always ask what I am getting and why. Think your book will be great along with information I already have.

[Cody]

When will you have this guide ready?

[markeldredge]

"After I had my son, the nurse who went in to deliver the second does of Rhogham looked at my "no blood" medical bracelet and smirked and said " why are you taking Rhogham?" I wasn't a JW then, but still refused blood, I had this stated on my medical charts, but my doctor gave me the shot anyways". Cody, just to clarify your comment, Rhogam does not contain blood (red cell, white cell, platelets, or plasma) but contains an immune globulin (anti-D) that has been taken out of plasma, thus making it a blood fraction. Many JW patients take Rhogam shots, as it is a matter of conscience for them. That is one reason this forum has been trying to list all the medications containing blood fractions. Your experience shows that nurses do not necessarily recognize the difference between our viewpoint on blood and blood fractions. Thanks for your input.