vitamins

I am undergoing adjuvant treatment for infiltrating ductal carcinoma. 1 node positive, ER positive, PR positive, HER2 negative. being given a course of TAC every 3rd week for 41/2 months followed by 6 weeks of radiation and 5 years of Tamoxofin. My question is whether during chemo, am I able to take vitamins such as B Complex,Vitamin C, Calcium, and an all natural supplement called Indole-3-Carbinol which is cruciferous vegetables of broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower an Kale, with Vitamin C(as asorbic acid) States clearly on the bottle,"no ingredients other than those listed on the label have been added to this product. Have you heard of this product and if so, because of the greens it has, would I benefit by taking this. My husband works nights, and I am much too tired to cook for myself. Please advise, as I need some sort of boost to help me overcome this horrible fatigue.  Is it safer to take a week or so after chemo, rather than 3 days before any treatment. I heard this works. Unfortunate also, I am a smoker, and going nuts, can I wear the patch, to help me quit, or would that be counteracting the chemo I am getting. Please help me sort these questions out.

[CCF-RN,MSN-rf]

Dear LMF:  In general, we recommend a daily vitamin, which should contain all the recommended daily requirements of most vitamins and minerals.  Since megadosing or using herbal supplements has not been well researched, we tend not to encourage these products because we just don't know if it will help or if it could produce some undesireable effect.  You should discuss this specifically with your doctor - as he/she may have an opinion on this.  In terms of the patch, you should bring this up with your doctor as well.  There is also an antidepressant that can be used to help people quit smoking that may give a little energy boost.  It is called welbutrin (but you cannot take this if you are using the patch).  Also, if you are feeling fatigued, you should ask your doctor if your hemoglobin might be low, indicating you are anemic.  If it is, there are medications that can help with this called PROCRIT or Aranesp.  Certainly, these medications may or may not be appropriate to your situation.  This is just information you can share with your physician.  You should make sure your physician is aware of how you are feeling.  You can read more about fatigue and other side effects of chemotherapy on www.chemocare.com.  Click on managing side effects to find "fatigue".