FDA approves asthma drug for treating food allergies
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — A drug newly approved by the Food and Drug Administration to reduce the risk of allergic reactions to food could bring relief to millions across the nation.
Xolair was originally approved in 2003 for the treatment of moderate to severe asthma reactions, but its approval in February has now expanded its use to those suffering from food allergies.
“It is important to know that Xolair is not a treatment for food allergies, but another level of protection,” said Dr. Sara Uekert, who works at Grand Rapids Allergy. “It protects you from accidental bite. It protects you from cross contamination.”
The dosage varies depending on patient and the severity of their allergy but is available to those one years of age or older.
The medication helps reduce severe reactions and lessens anxiety surrounding accidental exposure.
The study’s subjects “had to be (allergic to) less than half a peanut to even qualify for the study and at the end of the study the majority of them were able to eat three whole peanuts without having a reaction,” she said.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
