A groundbreaking study published in The New England Journal of Medicine has provided compelling evidence that oral immunotherapy (OIT) can offer long-term protection against severe allergic reactions in children with peanut allergies. The research, conducted over five years, followed participants who underwent gradual exposure to small amounts of peanut protein, increasing their tolerance over time. The results showed that nearly 70% of the children who completed the treatment were able to safely consume peanuts without adverse reactions years after stopping the therapy.
This study is particularly significant because previous research had raised concerns about whether the benefits of OIT would persist after discontinuation. The new findings suggest that early and sustained exposure may reprogram the immune system, reducing the risk of life-threatening anaphylaxis. Experts caution, however, that OIT should only be administered under strict medical supervision due to the risk of severe reactions during the treatment phase.
In parallel, pharmaceutical companies are developing standardized peanut allergy therapies, with one such product, Palforzia, already approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Despite its high cost—approximately $4,000 per year—many allergists see it as a game-changer for families dealing with severe peanut allergies. Advocacy groups are now pushing for broader insurance coverage to make the treatment more accessible.
Meanwhile, researchers are exploring whether similar approaches can be applied to other common food allergens, such as milk, eggs, and tree nuts. Early trials show promise, but larger studies are needed to confirm long-term efficacy and safety.
You Might Be Interested In:
- 6 Steps to Recover from a Cold Faster
- Acute Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
- Experimental Patch Shows Promise in Treating Eczema and Skin Allergies
