The FDA has just approved a new treatment for food allergies using a monoclonal antibody called Xolair. In a study with children and adults age one and up who had peanut allergy and at least two other food allergies, injections of Xolair for 16 to 20 months increased the amount of food allergen that could be eaten without having a moderate or severe reaction. In individuals with peanut allergy, 67 percent were able to eat 600mg of peanut protein. Similar results were seen for milk and egg, and a lower 42 percent in cashew allergy.
This is not considered a cure and the patients who responded to Xolair had to continue to avoid the food allergen. However, the risk of a severe reaction to accidental ingestion might be reduced. It is unclear whether patients will have to continue Xolair indefinitely. The study is now focusing on the use of Xolair with oral immunotherapy (OIT) to see if it will facilitate a faster and safer buildup.
We already use Xolair in our practice for other allergic conditions such as asthma, hives and nasal polyps. Contact us if you are interested in learning if you or your child would be candidates for Xolair.
