What Are Autoimmune Conditions?
Autoimmune conditions develop when your immune system attacks your body. The immune system protects your body by distinguishing pathogens and cancer cells from normal cells. Sometimes the immune system accidentally identifies healthy cells as foreign ones and produces antibodies to attack and destroy them.
Some autoimmune conditions can be treated with biologics. Biologics, also known as biologic response modifiers, are substances made from living organisms that modify immune responses. Some of the most common disorders that can be treated with biologic autoimmune therapy are:
- Psoriasis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease
Symptoms of Autoimmune Conditions
Autoimmune diseases can affect different organs and cause various symptoms. However, the early signs of most autoimmune disorders are similar and include:
- Pain
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Hair loss
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Skin rashes
- Achy muscles
- Low-grade fever
- Trouble concentrating
- Numbness and tingling in the hands and feet
There are also disease-specific symptoms. For instance, people with IBD may have stomach pain and bloating, while those with RA may suffer from stiff joints.
Treatments for Autoimmune Conditions
Currently, there are no cures for autoimmune disorders. However, you can manage symptoms with various treatments. Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications can reduce inflammation and alleviate the associated pain. Depending on your condition, you might also benefit from antidepressants, sleeping medications, and corticosteroids.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and injectable biologics are among the most effective types of autoimmune therapy. IVIG is a sterilized solution containing various antibodies prepared from the plasma of healthy blood donors. When immune globulin enters your body via intravenous route, it helps regulate your overactive immune system by restricting processes that cause inflammation. IVIG is a well-tolerated therapy that takes two to four hours and can be performed at home.
Biologics are among the newer forms of autoimmune treatments. These targeted drugs are genetically-engineered to block the overactive parts of your immune system and stop your body from attacking itself. Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF), Interleukin (IL), B-cell, and T-cell inhibitors are the main types of biologics. These treatments are ideal for those who have not responded to other forms of therapy and experience severe symptoms.
Receive Autoimmune Therapy At-Home With AmeriPharma Specialty Care
At AmeriPharma Specialty Care, we offer autoimmune treatments such as IVIG to those suffering from autoimmune conditions. Our URAC-accredited specialty infusion pharmacy will help you receive treatment in the comfort of your home. We are licensed in 35+ U.S. states and can send a specialized infusion nurse directly to you to administer your treatment.
AmeriPharma Specialty’s full-service coordination includes insurance approvals and copay assistance to lower your treatment costs. Our team of expert nurses, pharmacists, and support staff is available 24/7 to answer any questions you might have. Contact us now to learn more about our services or to receive at-home specialty care.