Answers to Common Questions About This Advanced Cellular Therapy
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) is a clinically validated procedure used to remove harmful substances from the bloodstream and reset immune and inflammatory balance. At AgeReversalMD, TPE is offered as part of a personalized protocol for patients seeking immune modulation, cognitive enhancement, and biological age reversal.
Below are answers to frequently asked questions based on clinical experience and published case data.
What is Therapeutic Plasma Exchange?
TPE is a medical procedure that removes and replaces the plasma portion of your blood. Plasma contains proteins, antibodies, cytokines, and toxins that may contribute to inflammation, immune dysfunction, and aging. During TPE:
- Blood is drawn and passed through an apheresis device
- Plasma is separated and discarded
- The remaining blood cells are mixed with a sterile replacement fluid (typically albumin)
- The cleansed blood is returned to your body
This process helps reduce circulating inflammatory and immune-related molecules.
What conditions can TPE help with?
TPE is FDA-cleared for over 80 conditions and is used in hospitals and specialty clinics for:
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus, myasthenia gravis, Guillain-Barré syndrome)
- Neurological disorders (e.g., CIDP, NMOSD, autoimmune encephalitis)
- Chronic inflammation and post-viral syndromes (e.g., Long COVID)
- Elevated lipoprotein(a) and metabolic dysfunction
- Cognitive decline and age-related immune imbalance
- Biological age reversal and longevity optimization
How does TPE affect biological aging?
In the published case report, a patient undergoing TPE showed:
- A reduction in biological age markers
- Improved telomere length
- Enhanced cognition and memory
- Decreased inflammatory cytokines
- Improved immune cell ratios (e.g., increased CD4/CD8 naïve T cells)
These outcomes suggest that TPE may help reverse molecular signs of aging and support long-term resilience.
What is the treatment experience like?
Each session lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours. Patients are seated comfortably and monitored throughout the procedure. Most report minimal discomfort aside from mild coldness or needle insertion.
Before treatment:
- Stay hydrated
- Eat a light meal
- Avoid alcohol the day before
After treatment:
- Mild fatigue or chills may occur
- Rest and hydration are recommended
- Most patients resume normal activities within hours
How many sessions are needed?
Protocols vary depending on your goals and health status. Common plans include:
- 1 to 6 initial sessions over several weeks
- Quarterly or biannual maintenance sessions
- Combination with IVIG or other therapies for autoimmune or neurological conditions
Dr. Phillip Milgram will recommend a personalized schedule based on your lab results, symptoms, and treatment goals.
Is TPE safe?
Yes. TPE has been used for over 50 years and is FDA-cleared for multiple indications. Side effects are rare and typically mild:
- Low blood pressure
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Mild allergic reactions to replacement fluids
- Temporary fatigue or chills
- Infection risk (if using a catheter)
At AgeReversalMD, safety protocols are strictly followed, and patients are monitored throughout the procedure.
Can TPE improve cognition?
In the case report, the patient experienced:
- Improved memory and mental clarity
- Reduced brain fog
- Enhanced verbal fluency and executive function
These improvements were attributed to reduced neuroinflammation and improved immune signaling. TPE may be especially helpful for patients with age-related cognitive decline, post-viral brain fog, or neuroimmune syndromes.
Is TPE combined with other therapies?
Yes. At AgeReversalMD, TPE may be paired with:
- IVIG (Intravenous Immunoglobulin)
- NAD+ IV Therapy
- Peptides and regenerative biologics
- Hormone optimization
- Lifestyle and nutrition protocols
This integrative approach supports immune reset, cellular repair, and long-term vitality.
Who is a good candidate for TPE?
TPE may be appropriate for:
- Adults over 40 with signs of immune aging or chronic inflammation
- Patients with autoimmune or neurological conditions
- Individuals recovering from viral illness or chronic fatigue
- Those seeking to reduce biological age and optimize longevity
Dr. Milgram will conduct a full evaluation to determine if TPE is right for you.
How do I get started?
To begin, schedule a consultation and Precision Age Assessment at AgeReversalMD. This includes:
- Comprehensive lab testing
- Immune and inflammatory profiling
- Biological age analysis
- Personalized treatment planning