A recent study published in the highly regarded New England Journal of Medicine has discovered that a drug commonly used to treat asthma may also provide protection against dangerous and potentially fatal food allergies. The study, which was partially funded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, focused on testing the effectiveness of the drug Xolair (also known as omalizumab) on 118 children who had known allergies to peanuts and at least one other food, such as milk or eggs.
Conducted at ten medical centers across the United States, the study revealed that 67 percent of the children who received treatment with Xolair were able to tolerate a small amount of peanut protein without experiencing any symptoms. In contrast, only 7 percent of the children who were given a placebo showed the same level of tolerance. These findings are significant and provide hope for individuals suffering from food allergies.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved the use of Xolair for the treatment of food allergies in both adults and children as young as one year old. It is important to note, however, that while this drug can help reduce the severity of allergic reactions, it does not eliminate the need for individuals to avoid known allergens. The drug should be seen as a complementary measure to existing allergy management strategies.
Xolair is administered through injections, typically every two to four weeks. Although this may be challenging for those who are needle-averse, the potential benefits of the treatment cannot be overstated. For individuals who have lived in constant fear of accidental exposure to allergens and the subsequent risk of hospitalization or worse, this treatment could be truly life-changing.
According to Dr. Robert Wood, one of the study’s leaders from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, severe allergic reactions account for an estimated 30,000 emergency room visits in the United States each year. The approval of Xolair for food allergies offers new hope for those who have been living with the constant threat of an allergic reaction.
Xolair is currently sold by pharmaceutical companies Roche and Novartis. The drug was originally approved over 20 years ago for the treatment of allergic asthma and has since demonstrated its potential in addressing other allergic conditions, such as food allergies. With the recent FDA approval for food allergies, Xolair is now available as a treatment option for a wider range of patients.
In conclusion, the findings of this study provide a glimmer of hope for individuals suffering from food allergies. While Xolair is not a cure, it has shown promising results in reducing the severity of allergic reactions to peanuts and other foods. It is important for individuals with food allergies to continue to exercise caution and avoid known allergens. However, the availability of Xolair as a treatment option offers a potential lifeline for those who have lived in fear of accidental exposure. With ongoing research and advancements in medical science, the future looks brighter for individuals with food allergies.
Source: The Manila Times
