Is the Stasis supplement safe for individuals with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)?

Safety of Stasis Supplement for Individuals with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome

The Stasis supplement is not recommended for individuals with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) due to potential triggering of mast cell activation and lack of specific safety data for this population. 1

Understanding MCAS and Supplement Considerations

MCAS is characterized by recurrent episodes affecting multiple organ systems, including cardiovascular, respiratory, dermatologic, and gastrointestinal systems. Symptoms include hypotension, tachycardia, syncope, wheezing, flushing, urticaria, and abdominal pain 1, 2.

Key concerns regarding supplements in MCAS patients:

• Individuals with MCAS have hypersensitive mast cells that can be triggered by numerous substances
• Supplements often contain multiple ingredients that may act as potential triggers
• Lack of FDA regulation for supplements means inconsistent quality control
• Risk of cross-contamination with allergens during manufacturing

Potential Triggers in Supplements

Patients with MCAS must be vigilant about potential triggers, which commonly include:

• Preservatives and additives
• Herbal components (many herbs can trigger mast cell degranulation)
• High-histamine ingredients
• Fermented ingredients
• Artificial colors and flavors
• Fillers and binding agents

Management Approach for MCAS Patients

Instead of using unregulated supplements, MCAS patients should follow evidence-based approaches:

1. First-line treatments:

   • Non-sedating H1 antihistamines (can be increased to 2-4 times standard dose)
   • H2 receptor antagonists for enhanced effect 1

2. Add-on therapies:

   • Cromolyn sodium - particularly effective for gastrointestinal symptoms and may benefit neuropsychiatric manifestations 1, 3
   • Omalizumab for antihistamine-resistant symptoms 1
   • Leukotriene receptor antagonists when urinary LTE4 levels are elevated 1

3. Trigger avoidance:

   • Identify and avoid known triggers including insect venoms, temperature extremes, mechanical irritation, alcohol, and certain medications 1
   • Follow structured elimination diet approach to identify food triggers 1

Emergency Preparedness

All MCAS patients should:

• Carry two epinephrine auto-injectors for emergency management of anaphylaxis 1
• Assume a supine position for hypotensive episodes 1
• Have albuterol available for bronchospasm symptoms 1

Recommendations for Supplement Use

If an MCAS patient is considering supplements:

1. Consult specialists first:

   • Discuss with allergist/immunologist familiar with MCAS
   • Review all ingredients with healthcare provider

2. Start cautiously:

   • Begin with micro-doses to test tolerance
   • Introduce only one new supplement at a time
   • Have emergency medications readily available

3. Consider pharmaceutical-grade alternatives:

   • Cromolyn sodium is FDA-approved for mastocytosis and inhibits mediator release from mast cells 3
   • Only 1% of cromolyn sodium is absorbed after oral administration, with the remainder excreted in feces 3

Conclusion

The risk of triggering mast cell activation with supplements of uncertain composition outweighs potential benefits for MCAS patients. Instead, focus on evidence-based pharmacologic treatments and trigger avoidance under specialist guidance.