In January 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Palforzia for use in treating peanut allergies. Also known as the peanut pill, this medication offers a way to build peanut tolerance and reduce the chance of allergic reactions. Many people in Atlanta looking to manage their allergies may be considering using Palforzia treatment. But can the peanut pill provide a cure for severe allergies?
How Does the Peanut Pill Work?
Palforzia is a capsule or sachet containing peanut flour. The medication is used to desensitize the immune system to peanuts as part of oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT). Patients who are between ages 4–17 receive gradually increasing doses of peanut flour at their allergist’s office.
The treatment can then continue at home for at least 22 weeks, with check-ups to ensure a person can safely tolerate the dose. If the treatment is working, patients can then maintain tolerance by taking daily doses of the peanut pill.
Will the Peanut Pill Cure a Peanut Allergy?
The peanut pill cannot cure a peanut allergy and is only intended to reduce the severity of allergic reactions. Unfortunately, food allergies are complex and reactions may be unpredictable. For some people, a peanut allergy can go away as they grow up, whereas others must carefully manage their food intake throughout their lives. The peanut pill could assist in the process of treating an allergy, but should not be confused with a cure.
How Does the Peanut Pill Compare to Other Peanut Desensitization Treatments?
A 2021 study using randomized trials gave peanut allergy sufferers Palforzia at increasing doses for six months, followed by maintenance doses for an additional six months. The study found that 67.2% of participants could tolerate 600mg (equivalent to around two peanut kernels) of peanut protein. This number dropped to 50.3% at 1000mg of peanut protein (around three to four peanuts).
Dr. Chacko approaches the OIT process differently, using real peanuts or peanut butter instead of peanut flour. The aim is for patients to build a gradual tolerance to between three and eight peanut kernels, but many patients receive a maintenance level far beyond this. A key benefit of this added tolerance is that patients are less likely to experience a severe allergic reaction that could result from accidental exposure.
Furthermore, studies into peanut desensitization found that 91% of trial participants were still desensitized four weeks after stopping maintenance doses. Following the approach used by Dr. Chacko and others, patients can achieve a higher maintenance dose that is sustained over a longer period.
With a list price of $890 per month, those not eligible for an assistance program may be priced out of the peanut pill treatment. In contrast, desensitization using real peanuts or peanut butter is a far more affordable food allergy treatment, one that still maintains the highest levels of safety.
Prevent Allergic Reactions With Peanut Desensitization Treatment
At Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center, we offer proven, affordable and effective peanut allergy desensitization. To discuss a personalized treatment plan, visit us at a location in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Duluth and Johns Creek. To reach us, call (678) 668-4688 or make an appointment today.