A Patient’s Guide to Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) is a treatment designed to reduce the severity of allergic reactions and minimize the chance for anaphylaxis to certain foods by gradually desensitizing the immune system. This is achieved by introducing miniscule amounts of the allergen and slowly increasing the dose over time. The objective of OIT is to allow the immune system to become accustomed to the allergen, lessening the likelihood of a severe reaction upon accidental exposure. OIT is carefully monitored by specialists to ensure that the increase in allergen exposure happens in a controlled and safe environment.

The reasoning behind OIT is that the body can be trained to tolerate the allergen at levels that would normally trigger a reaction, allowing individuals with allergies to consume, in small amounts, foods that were once harmful or even life threatening. OIT does not necessarily lead to a complete cure of the allergy, but it does significantly reduce the risk of severe reactions. Patients usually need to continue maintenance doses after the treatment period to maintain their tolerance.

Oral immunotherapy is most used to treat food allergies, particularly those involving peanuts, tree nuts, sesame, eggs, milk, and wheat. These foods are among the most prevalent causes of life-threatening allergic reactions. OIT offers an effective way to decrease the severity of the response to accidental ingestion. By addressing the immune system’s reaction to these allergens, OIT can provide a layer of protection and peace of mind, especially for those who face the daily risk of exposure. While OIT has been studied for nearly 20 years, clinical research has now flourished and is being accepted with great enthusiasm for its efficacy. The goal of OIT is to provide a safer experience for individuals who live with severe allergies, reducing the risk of anaphylaxis and providing more dietary freedom over time. OIT treatment is fully personalized depending on both the type as well as the severity of the allergy. Patients may be treated with OIT for multiple allergies simultaneously.

Individuals with moderate to severe food allergies, particularly those at high risk of anaphylaxis, are often the best candidates for OIT. Children as young as 9 months of age, teens and adults who have a history of allergic reactions to foods like peanuts, eggs, or dairy may benefit from this treatment, especially when risk of accidental exposure is high. By lessening the body’s reactivity to the allergen, OIT can significantly improve quality of life, reducing anxiety around food and social situations.

While OIT can be beneficial for many, not all individuals with allergies are ideal candidates. The treatment requires a significant time commitment and must be done under strict medical supervision. A thorough evaluation by the specialists at Allergy and Asthma Care can help determine if OIT is a good option.

Oral immunotherapy, like all medical treatments, does come with potential side effects though they are generally manageable. The most common side effects associated with OIT include mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea or stomach discomfort, or mild allergic reactions like itching or swelling in the mouth during the initial stages of the therapy. These side effects tend to diminish over time as the body becomes more tolerant of the allergen. An infrequently occurring condition, Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOE), may develop during OIT.

There is always a risk of more severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, which is why OIT is administered in a highly controlled medical setting. The specialists overseeing the treatment monitor patients closely to ensure that any adverse reactions are swiftly addressed. Side effects of OIT tend to be mild and transient, but ongoing collaboration with providers at Allergy and Asthma Care is key to ensuring the safety and efficacy of the therapy.

Oral immunotherapy is available at Allergy and Asthma Care. For more information, contact us today to book an appointment with our specialist. We serve patients from Suffern NY, Monroe NY, New City NY, Spring Valley NY, Monsey NY, Airmont NY and Mahwah NJ