Plasmapheresis and New Wellness Therapies

Author

Dr. Alfred Granite
January 22, 2025

In partnership with

This week’s episode is quite unusual as compared to typical newsletters published by THE HUMAN CONDITION. However, I believe that it lives up to the description of “cutting edge medical and scientific information”. From my point of view, I believe that we are in a very unique time in the evolution of medicine. I feel that we are at a crossroads between the practice of medicine that I learned when I was in school, and what I see in the near future.

NOTE: Our companion podcast has seen a remarkable surge in popularity, thanks to its wide appeal and unwavering commitment to scientific accuracy. I highly recommend starting with the podcast for an engaging overview, then referring to the text for more detailed information on specific topics. As always, you’ll find the podcast conveniently embedded near the end of each newsletter—just a click away!.

Medical education historically emphasized infectious diseases, surgical procedures, and pharmacological treatments to address chronic or acute illnesses. Today, however, there has been an almost complete shift in focus. Over the past 30 years, advances in science have deepened our understanding of genetics and the intricate workings of the human body. This growing knowledge continually reveals the body's astounding complexity and its innate ability to heal itself—provided harmful influences are eliminated from both the body and the environment.

For my regular readers, you may have noticed my growing emphasis on metabolic function. This focus stems from the principles of functional medicine, which seeks to understand why we become ill rather than merely evaluating symptoms. Traditional approaches often rely on prescribing drugs to address these symptoms, which can provide relief but rarely address the root causes of illness. Functional medicine, by contrast, aims to uncover and treat these underlying causes for a more holistic path to health.

This may seem obvious to you, but it leads to the question: can we really do that? I must respond with a resounding yes, at least in most cases. Now, this level of expertise is limited in terms of geographical location and financial capability. However, I see this level of treatment coming, especially to urban areas, sooner than you think. Although artificial intelligence has its dangers, there is no other technology capable of making such a major impact on medical technology in the short term.

I must also remind you that the treatments and discoveries I discuss in my newsletters were largely unknown at the time of my education in the 1970s. However, my understanding of the fundamental principles of human anatomy, physiology, and biochemistry enables me to fully grasp these groundbreaking discoveries. More importantly, the concepts governing these new discoveries are familiar to me… answers that I had been seeking all of my career are now being revealed as if someone had drawn back the curtains, letting the light of understanding into a darkened room.

I see a massive change coming to healthcare in this country. As one of my favorite voices in medical research, author Dr. Peter Attia, sees it as moving from “Medicine 2.0” to Medicine 3.0”. In Medicine 2.0, we focused on infectious diseases, operative procedures, and pharmacology. Medicine 3.0 is directed to the discovery of root causes and prevention. The ability to make this possible has come from the pioneering work done on genomics, cellular physiology, and the development of Artificial Intelligence integrated into general healthcare.

Most of the improvement in human lifespan as compared to our ancestors in medicine 2.0 was achieved largely by vaccinations, antibiotics, emergency medicine, and advancements in sanitation. Recently there has been a shift in focus on “HealthSpan”.  HealthSpan concentrates on the quality of life and the ability to live without pain and effectively accomplish activities  most important to you, in the last 10 years of your life.

To begin, I would like to introduce you to a relatively new procedure that is within the realm of possibility for most individuals. Some will receive partial coverage though insurance, while others while other can use their MSA or FSA accounts. Older individuals above 65 years of age will likely have to pay out of pocket for now. However, I believe the insurance coverage will improve in the future because insurance companies and government will eventually realize that this procedure will save them huge sums of money in the long run. I am speaking of a procedure known as plasmapheresis.

The age group that benefits most from plasmapheresis (also known as plasma exchange) depends on the specific condition being treated, as it is used for a variety of medical indications. However, in general:

Younger Adults and Adolescents

Younger patients often benefit the most from plasmapheresis because their bodies may respond more robustly to the removal of pathogenic substances from the blood. These benefits are seen in conditions like:

  • Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as myasthenia gravis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and neuromyelitis optica.

  • Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP): A life-threatening condition where plasmapheresis is essential.

    What is TTP (click)

Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Plasmapheresis can also be effective in middle-aged and older adults, especially in treating:

  • Neurological conditions: Such as chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).

What is CIDP (click)

  • Rheumatologic diseases: Such as vasculitis or severe lupus with kidney involvement.

Elderly Patients

The benefits in elderly patients can vary:

  • They may see improvements in conditions like paraneoplastic syndromes or severe autoimmune diseases.

  • However, response rates might be lower due to age-related immune changes or comorbidities.

Emerging Uses in Longevity and Aging Research

There is growing interest in the use of plasma exchange for anti-aging or rejuvenation purposes, particularly among middle-aged and older adults. Research suggests that removing certain age-associated inflammatory factors from plasma (e.g., pro-inflammatory cytokines) may have regenerative effects. This approach is still experimental and not widely adopted in clinical practice.

In summary, the specific age group benefiting most from plasmapheresis depends on the context, but younger and middle-aged individuals with acute or autoimmune conditions typically show the most dramatic responses. For aging-related interventions, more research is needed to determine the optimal demographic.

Abstract Impression of Plasmapheresis

The following podcast by Dr, Mark Hyman provides an excellent overview of the procedure and the way it is being used in cutting edge and anti-aging treatment. It features a well-known surgeon who underwent the procedure that he claims has eliminated virtually all of the chronic conditions he acquired as a result of his stressful and phrenetic lifestyle. His experience was so profound that it prompted him to open a new generation of healthcare clinics here and abroad named Next Health. Next Health offers free online consultations that can assist you further if it is right for you, and what options are available.

I urge to watch because this lengthy video will introduce you to the truth of healthcare as it stands today and what it could be… and will be tomorrow. This is not my opinion; I guarantee you this will happen. By listening you will learn so many more things apart from the procedure. Bear in mind that these are two very experienced doctors whose main objective is education. You will be surprised at the myriads of diseases that each of them has experienced and overcome. You will learn things that you never knew about the most dreaded disease conditions. Please don’t expect to get through this in a single sitting… take note of the time when you pause.

Excellent Podcast hosted by Dr. Mark Hyman (~1 hour)

Details of Plasmapheresis

Plasmapheresis is a medical procedure that involves removing, treating, and then returning or exchanging blood plasma back into the bloodstream. Plasma is the liquid component of blood that contains proteins, antibodies, and other substances. 

How it Works:

  • A needle is inserted into a vein and blood is drawn into a machine. 

  • The machine separates the plasma from the blood cells. 

  • The plasma can be treated in various ways, such as filtration, freezing, or infusion with other substances. 

  • The treated plasma is then returned to the bloodstream, along with the blood cells.

Indications: 

Plasmapheresis is used to treat a variety of conditions, including: 

  • Autoimmune disorders (e.g., multiple sclerosis, myasthenia gravis)

  • Blood disorders (e.g., multiple myeloma, Waldenström's macroglobulinemia)

  • Hyperviscosity syndrome

  • Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura

  • Wilson's disease 

Risks and Side Effects:

The most common side effects of plasmapheresis include:

Low blood pressure, Dizziness, Headache, Muscle cramps, and Allergic reactions. Serious complications are rare but can include infection, bleeding, and seizures.

Before and After Care:

  • Before the procedure, you will need to provide a medical history and undergo a physical exam. 

  • You may be asked to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners.

  • After the procedure, you will need to rest and drink plenty of fluids. 

  • You may experience some discomfort and bruising at the needle site. 

  • It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and attend follow-up appointments as scheduled.

Short Explanation of the Process

In the United States, the cost of a plasmapheresis treatment, also known as plasma exchange, can vary depending on location and insurance coverage, but typically falls around $1,200 per procedure when albumin is used as the replacement fluid; however, the total cost of treatment can be significantly higher depending on the number of sessions required for a specific condition.

Key points about plasmapheresis cost:

  • Variable based on location

Prices can differ depending on which healthcare facility you choose to receive treatment at. 

  • Insurance coverage impact

Your insurance plan will significantly influence the out-of-pocket cost of plasmapheresis. 

  • Treatment duration

The total cost is largely determined by the number of plasmapheresis sessions needed for your condition. 

(Cleveland Clinic)

Hyperbaric Medicine

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. The increased pressure and oxygen levels help the body heal and fight infections. 

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), is a medical treatment that involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. The increased pressure and oxygen levels help the body heal and fight infections. 

Hyperbaric Treatment Room

How it works:

  • HBOT increases the amount of oxygen in the blood

  • The increased oxygen helps tissues heal, reduces inflammation, and improves overall health

  • HBOT can be administered in a pressurized chamber where the patient breathes pure oxygen

Ozone Therapy

Most Common Uses:

  • Skin conditions

Ozone therapy may be effective for short-term treatment of ulcers and scarring 

  • Inflammation

Ozone therapy may reduce inflammation, which could help with osteoarthritis, wounds, and low back pain 

  • Lumbar pain

Ozone therapy may be more effective than other therapies for lumbar pain relief over six months 

  • Fibromyalgia

Ozone therapy may be effective for treating fibromyalgia without significant side effects 

  • Musculoskeletal conditions

Ozone therapy may be effective for treating tendinopathies, rheumatic pathologies, chronic pain syndromes, and fibromyalgia 

  • Pain management

Ozone therapy may be effective for managing pain, including low back pain and rotator cuff calcific tendinitis 

Safety

  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against using ozone therapy because there is not enough evidence to conclude that it is safe or effective 

  • Inhaling ozone may cause unpleasant symptoms, such as nausea, coughing, and a burning sensation in the eyes 

  • Some patients experience a flu-like reaction after receiving ozone treatment 

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy or hormonal therapy is the use of hormones in medical treatment. Treatment with hormone antagonists may also be referred to as hormonal therapy or antihormone therapy. The most general classes of hormone therapy are oncologic hormone therapy, hormone replacement therapy (for menopause), androgen replacement therapy (ART)

(for menopause)

Peptide Therapy

Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, typically 2-100 amino acids long. They play essential roles in the body, such as insulin, a 51-amino-acid peptide that regulates sugar metabolism. First synthesized in 1921, insulin became the first peptide drug in 1923 to treat type 1 diabetes. Peptide drugs are promising due to their targeted delivery, minimal side effects, and recyclable breakdown products (amino acids). Research suggests peptides may support anti-aging, muscle growth, fat loss, and skin health, leading to their inclusion in skincare and dietary supplements.

Peptides, both natural and synthetic, play diverse roles in health and skincare. Here's a condensed summary of their benefits:

  1. Anti-Aging:

    • Collagen peptides support skin elasticity and hydration, reduce wrinkles, and improve joint function, especially in older adults.

    • Copper peptide (GHK-Cu) enhances collagen and elastin production, repairs skin, and may promote hair growth. It’s available in creams and serums but no longer as injections due to FDA concerns.

    • Matrixyl (palmitoyl pentapeptide-4) improves skin texture and reduces dark spots and circles.

  2. Skin Health:

    • Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) strengthen the skin barrier and combat conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and acne. Prescription products containing AMPs are available for severe cases.

  3. Muscle Growth & Weight Loss:

    • Collagen and creatine support muscle repair and growth. However, growth hormone secretagogues (GHS) are unsafe and banned in competitions.

  4. Hair Growth:

    • Peptides like GHK-Cu and folitin promote thicker, healthier hair and are available as topical serums or oral supplements.

  5. Bone Health:

    • Collagen peptides may improve bone density, especially post-menopause, and FDA-approved peptide drugs treat osteoporosis.

  6. Testosterone Boost:

    • Peptides like kisspeptin-10 and gonadorelin stimulate hormone production, increasing testosterone and restoring fertility in individuals with hormonal deficiencies.

Conclusion

This week’s newsletter reflects the transformative era we’re witnessing in medicine, characterized by a shift from treating symptoms to addressing root causes and enhancing healthspan—the quality of life during our later years. Emerging therapies, like plasmapheresis, hyperbaric oxygen, and peptide treatments, exemplify how modern medicine is leveraging advancements in genetics, cellular physiology, and artificial intelligence to promote prevention and longevity.

While traditional methods like antibiotics and surgical interventions have extended lifespans, today’s focus is on holistic approaches that prioritize metabolic health, regenerative treatments, and patient-centered care. The groundbreaking therapies explored in this edition are not just theoretical—they represent tangible shifts already underway, with the promise of broader accessibility in the near future.

As always, THE HUMAN CONDITION aims to empower you with cutting-edge knowledge to navigate these advancements. Together, we’re stepping into “Medicine 3.0,” a new paradigm of healthcare driven by prevention, personalization, and innovation. Let’s embrace this future and continue exploring the possibilities it holds for a healthier tomorrow.

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Until next time, take care and stay positive… Dr. G

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