From the Guidelines
Nattokinase is not recommended as a treatment for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). While nattokinase has some potential health benefits, there is no scientific evidence that it can effectively treat or cure EBV infections. The most recent and highest quality study on EBV management, published in 2016 in the journal Haematologica 1, does not mention nattokinase as a treatment option for EBV.
EBV Management
EBV is best managed through supportive care and allowing the immune system to fight the virus. Treatment typically involves:
- Rest
- Hydration
- Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage symptoms In severe cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed by a doctor. According to the 2016 study in Haematologica 1, therapeutic options for EBV-PTLD in the central nervous system include rituximab, chemotherapy, and anti-EBV T-cell therapy.
Nattokinase and EBV
Nattokinase is an enzyme derived from fermented soybeans that has shown some promise in breaking down blood clots and potentially improving cardiovascular health. However, its effects on viral infections like EBV have not been established. The immune system, not blood-clotting factors, is primarily responsible for fighting viral infections. As stated in the 2013 study in Clinical Infectious Diseases 1, antiviral drugs are not effective against EBV, and there is no evidence to recommend any anti-EBV antiviral prophylaxis in patients with hematological malignancies.
Recommendations
If you're dealing with EBV, focus on rest, proper nutrition, and following your doctor's advice rather than relying on unproven supplements like nattokinase. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially when dealing with a viral infection. The 2016 study in Haematologica 1 recommends that the diagnosis of EBV-PTLD must be based on symptoms and/or signs consistent with PTLD together with detection of EBV by an appropriate method applied to a specimen from the involved tissue.
From the Research
Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and Nattokinase
There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as none of the provided studies mention nattokinase in relation to EBV.
Current Treatments for EBV
- Antiviral drugs have proven to be effective inhibitors of EBV replication, yet have resulted in limited success clinically, and none of them has been approved for treatment of EBV infections 2
- Acyclovir administration can inhibit oropharyngeal EBV replication, but has a minimal effect on clinical symptoms 3
- Combination of intravenous acyclovir and prednisolone treatment can cause transient cessation of virus shedding and have a dramatic clinical effect on pharyngeal symptoms and fever 3
Future Prospects for EBV Treatment
- Novel anti-EBV compounds, such as maribavir, are being discussed as potentially useful for the treatment of acute EBV infections 4
- Experimental approaches for treatment of EBV-related malignancies that are not susceptible to conventional antiviral drug treatment are being explored 4
- Immunological-based approaches targeted at EBV-infected cells, as well as improvement in the treatment of the underlying and predisposing disease, are being developed for immunocompromised patients 5