What Is Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy Taming Allergies & Autoimmune Disease

Immunotherapy is a treatment approach used for both allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases, though the mechanisms and applications differ slightly between these conditions.

Immunotherapy for Allergies

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is designed to treat allergic reactions by gradually desensitizing the immune system to specific allergens. This process involves administering increasing doses of the allergen to the patient over time. The goal is to induce long-term tolerance to the allergen, thereby reducing or eliminating allergic symptoms. The two main forms of AIT are:

1. Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT): This involves injecting small amounts of the allergen under the skin. It is the most commonly used and effective form of allergy immunotherapy.

2. Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT): This involves placing a tablet containing the allergen under the tongue. It is an alternative to injections and is also effective but less commonly used in the United States.

The incremental exposure to the allergen is thought to lead to the production of "blocking" antibodies, which prevent the allergic reaction from occurring when the allergen is encountered in the future. This treatment can also reduce inflammation associated with allergic conditions such as rhinitis and asthma.

Immunotherapy for Autoimmune Diseases

In the context of autoimmune diseases, immunotherapy aims to modulate the immune system to prevent it from attacking the body's own tissues. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly targets healthy cells. Immunotherapy for these conditions often involves:

1. Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: These drugs "release the brakes" on the immune system, allowing it to more effectively target and destroy abnormal cells, such as cancer cells. However, this can sometimes exacerbate autoimmune symptoms.

2. Other Immune-Modulating Therapies: These can include treatments that specifically target components of the immune system involved in the autoimmune response, aiming to reduce inflammation and tissue damage.

The use of immunotherapy in patients with both cancer and autoimmune diseases is an area of active research. Clinical trials are ongoing to determine the safety and efficacy of these treatments in such complex cases. These trials aim to develop guidelines for managing immune-related side effects and understanding the interactions between the immune system's antitumor and autoimmune responses. Overall, immunotherapy represents a promising approach for treating both allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases by carefully modulating the immune system's activity.

Types Of Immunotherapies

Many autoimmune conditions respond to immunotherapy. We use several forms of immunotherapy to treat both allergies and autoimmune conditions.

Low Dose Antigen (LDA)

Is the most versatile. We use LDA to treat both seasonal and perennial (year-round) allergies. LDA works well for food allergies, chemical sensitivity, and inhalant allergies. LDA bacterial vaccines can be used to treat arthritis as well. Learn more about LDA.

Low Dose Immunotherapy (LDI)

Is similar to LDA but can be used for more difficult conditions like Lyme Disease, IBS, Fibromyalgia, and many other chronic conditions. Learn more about LDI.

Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)

Is not immunotherapy, but an immune system adjuvant. It improves immune function and quiets an overactive immune system. Successful at reducing pain, fighting inflammation, and positive treatment for other symptoms of different autoimmune diseases. Learn more about LDN.