Omalizumab proves to be effective in treating food allergies even in a 1-year-old!

Food allergies, a growing concern with significant health impacts, currently have limited treatment options. A recent study in ‘The New England Journal of Medicine’ explored whether Omalizumab could serve as an effective standalone treatment for multiple food allergies.

This trial conducted by Robert A. Wood and his team involved participants (aged 1 and 55 years) who had life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to peanuts and at least two other specific foods, such as egg, cashew, and walnuts. Participants were divided into two groups: one received Omalizumab and the other a placebo, administered every 2 to 4 weeks for 16 to 20 weeks. The primary endpoint was the ability to consume 600 mg of peanut protein without severe reactions, with secondary endpoints including tolerance to other foods under consideration. 

Out of 462 screened participants, 180 were randomized, with 177 being children or adolescents. Among those receiving Omalizumab, 67% met the primary endpoint, compared to just 7% in the placebo group. Similar improvements were witnessed for the secondary endpoints. Safety profiles were similar between groups, with more injection-site reactions reported by those who were administered with Omalizumab.

Compared to placebo, Omalizumab significantly enhances allergen tolerance in young patients with multiple food allergies useful for managing complex food allergies.