Immunotherapy for peanut allergies is a completely new approach to treat peanut allergies, which can lead to severe reactions (some of which can be deadly).
Therefore, the goal of this new method is to aid people with peanut allergies to become less sensitive by slowly introducing them to controlled amounts of peanut protein. Here in this blog, we’ll guide you through the various types of immunotherapy along with the possible benefits and drawbacks of it.
So, want to know more about this? If yes, then binge on till the end of the blog.
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Peanut Allergy Immunotherapy: An Overview
Immunotherapy for peanut allergies can aid people in becoming less allergic to peanuts. It starts with a very small amount of peanut protein and keeps adding more until the right dose is met. This might make it less likely that the person will have a bad reaction to peanuts.
Remember, though, if you have an allergic response, this treatment should only be done by a doctor or in a medical setting. It won’t cure peanut allergies, but it can make them less severe and more of a new peanut allergy treatment type.
Types of Different Peanut Allergy Immunotherapy
The section here will focus on the different types of peanut allergy immunotherapy and even let you know how each of these can help with certain allergy reactions.
Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)
People who use this method add small amounts of peanut powder to their food over time. It’s the plan to aid them in getting used to peanuts over time. At this moment, kids between the ages of 4 and 17 are allowed to take Oral Immunotherapy.
Moreover, patients start with very small doses and slowly increase them until they hit a level of tolerance that they can’t go back to. This is the very first treatment that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved. Some allergists also use peanut goods that aren’t FDA-approved, but they follow certain rules.
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)
SLIT can be used instead of OIT. Putting a few drops of a peanut protein extract under the tongue for a short time before eating is part of the process. However, more research is being conducted to ensure that the SLIT is safe enough for use.
Biologic Medicines
Medicines like omalizumab and cetuximab are being studied as possible ways to treat peanut allergies. They work by focusing on certain immune reactions connected to allergies.
Possible Good Sides and Drawbacks of Peanut Allergy Immunotherapy
Here are some of the possible good sides and drawbacks of peanut allergy immunotherapy. Make sure to read on till the end of the section.
Good Sides
- The most significant advantage of immunotherapy is a reduced risk of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, when exposed to peanuts. This can be a life-changing improvement for individuals with peanut allergies, as it reduces the fear and danger associated with accidental exposure.
- Immunotherapy follows a controlled and gradual approach to increasing peanut tolerance. This method is generally safer than uncontrolled or accidental exposure. It allows the immune system to adapt and become less reactive to peanuts over time.
- As tolerance increases, individuals may have more food choices, making it easier to dine out or participate in social events. This can reduce the feeling of being left out or different from peers.
- Peanut allergy can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, as it necessitates strict avoidance and constant vigilance. Immunotherapy can alleviate some of these challenges, allowing individuals to include peanuts in their diet to some extent, which can lead to a better quality of life.
Drawbacks
- Immunotherapy can sometimes lead to allergic reactions during the desensitization process. While most reactions are mild and easily managed, more severe reactions can occur, albeit rarely. As a result, immunotherapy requires close monitoring by healthcare professionals.
- Immunotherapy demands a significant time commitment. It involves regular visits to the allergist for dose adjustments and long-term commitment to the treatment, which can be inconvenient for some individuals and their families.
- Some people experience side effects during immunotherapy, such as gastrointestinal symptoms, itching, or mouth discomfort. These side effects can be bothersome but are generally manageable.
- It’s essential to understand that immunotherapy is not a cure for peanut allergy. It aims to manage the condition and reduce the severity and frequency of allergic reactions. Complete tolerance to peanuts may not be achieved for everyone, and continued exposure is usually required to maintain tolerance.
- Some forms of peanut allergy immunotherapy, especially newer or less widely accepted methods, may not be readily available, and not all allergists offer these treatments. Access can be limited, depending on one’s location and healthcare system.
Bottom Line
Well, vaccination for peanut allergies is changing everything for people who are allergic to peanuts. It gives people hope for less stress and a better quality of life by lowering the chance of having severe reactions to peanuts by mistake.
Even though there are some problems, like safety issues and time commitments, the possible benefits are immense. Immunotherapy for peanut allergies shows how important personalized care and new ways to deal with food allergies are for making many people’s lives better.
