Asthma Drug Shows Promise For Protecting Against Food Allergy Reactions
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Omalizumab, an existing asthma drug, was shown to protect people with severe food allergies from having reactions if they ingest small amounts of an allergen.
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67% of participants taking omalizumab could tolerate the equivalent of 2-3 peanuts without a significant reaction, compared to just 7% taking a placebo.
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Omalizumab works by targeting IgE antibodies, which drive allergic reactions, and was recently approved by the FDA as a treatment for food allergies.
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Unlike other food allergy treatments, omalizumab works immediately, can be used for allergies beyond just peanuts, and is safe for children as young as 1.
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Researchers are still studying why the drug works better for some people than others and whether it can prevent severe allergic reactions from large allergen exposures.