With peanut allergies affecting an increasing number of people, research is ongoing into potential treatments. Currently, there are two remedies delivering results for patients – oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT) and the peanut pill. For anyone with a concerning peanut allergy, these treatments may offer the relief they have been craving. And while there may not yet be a cure for allergies, these treatments are helping people across Atlanta live without fear of consuming peanuts.
The Best Two Peanut Allergy Treatment Options
1. Oral Immunotherapy Treatment (OIT)
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center’s innovative OIT has helped adults and children from six months of age and up as they deal with severe peanut allergies. It is not uncommon for patients to travel long distances to get relief from the threat of peanuts, peanut oils and other products that could lead to anaphylaxis.
The process of OIT requires a level of commitment, as patients will need to consume peanuts or peanut butter over months or even a year. Treatment is started at one of the Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center locations, with small amounts of peanuts being consumed. Next, individuals continue to take increasing doses from home. Over time, the immune system will get used to the presence of controlled amounts of peanut protein and stop responding.
While OIT is not a quick-fix solution, the results speak for themselves. After successfully completing treatment, most patients can safely consume a number of peanuts. With your allergist’s approval, you could even be able to reintegrate peanuts back into your diet.
2. The Peanut Pill
Palforzia, also called “the peanut pill,” is similar to OIT, with patients consuming a capsule containing peanut flour. The principle of desensitizing the immune system to peanuts is the same, but there are significant differences. The peanut pill is available to children ages 4–17, and only builds tolerance of 300mg of peanut protein (or a single peanut). While the peanut allergy won’t go away, Palforzia can prevent reactions from unexpected contact.
In comparison, the OIT process provides greater desensitization across a wider age range. OIT can be used for children as young as six months, and can build tolerance for a handful of peanuts or more. For individuals with difficult peanut allergies, both treatments offer benefits and give more tools to allergists to help their patients fight allergies.
Avoiding Peanuts Is a First Step
While avoidance is not a food allergy treatment, it is an important step in the process. If you experience an allergic reaction, speak to your allergist before consuming any more peanuts. Avoidance of both peanuts and peanut ingredients allows time for your allergist to diagnose and treat the condition, and can save you from a potential anaphylactic reaction.
Call Us for Proven Peanut Allergy Treatments
Have you experienced an allergic reaction after eating peanuts? Our doctors can diagnose and treat a range of food allergies from locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call the Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center at (678) 668-4688 or request help online.