Genentech and Novartis are developing an anti-IgE monoclonal antibody for asthma and allergic rhinitis. In December 1999 they announced positive study results. This is evidence that reducing IgE results in a reduction of symptoms associated with IgE-mediated allergic disease.13 For people who find they cannot adequately avoid the allergens, the symptoms often can be controlled with medications. Effective medications that can be prescribed by a physician include antihistamines, topical nasal steroids, and cromolyn sodium - any of which can be used alone or in combination. Many effective antihistamines and decongestants also are available without a prescription. Click here for allergy medication online.

“The high CD4/CD8 ratio and suppressed NK cell activity were improved by methyl-B12 treatment.” The Japanese researchers state: “We conclude that vitamin B12 acts as an immunomodulator for cellular immunity.”11 B12 was used successfully in the treatment of IgE-mediated skin disorders. The German researchers conclude that B12 (cobalamin) when applied to the skin one or more times per day exhibited “...excellent results in topical treatment of skin disorders and in particular of inflammatory and hyperproliferative skin ailments and/or cutaneous manifestations of illness which are immunologic in origin, e.g. psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, and other eczematous dermatitises...”12 Click here for Allergy medication online.

Antihistamines As the name indicates, an antihistamine counters the effects of histamine, which is released by the mast cells in the body''s tissues and contributes to allergy symptoms. For many years, antihistamines have proven useful in relieving sneezing and itching in the nose, throat, and eyes and in reducing nasal swelling and drainage. Many people who take antihistamines experience some distressing side effects: drowsiness and loss of alertness and coordination. In children, such reactions can be misinterpreted as behavior problems. During the last few years, however, antihistamines that cause fewer of these side effects have become available by prescription. These new nonsedating antihistamines are as effective as other antihistamines in preventing histamine-induced symptoms, but do so without causing sleepiness.