Reactions during OIT can occur but they are mostly mild, consisting of stomach upset or mild hives in our experience. However, more serious reactions including anaphylaxis can potentially occur.
Any updose is always performed in the office with observation for at least an hour. All medications are readily available to treat any reaction. Reactions have occurred at home as well even with a previously tolerated dose, and parents must be familiar with their anaphylaxis plan and be prepared to treat in the case of an unexpected reaction.
Our updosing schedule is intentionally very gradual and is meant to minimize the chances of a reaction while achieving the same end result over time as more rapid regimens.
A very small percent of patients have been reported to develop eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), an allergic condition of the esophagus that causes heartburn, vomiting or difficulty swallowing, but it is not clear that this was caused by OIT. This risk may be minimized by drinking fluids after the food dose.