Treatments

No – food OIT is designed to reduce sensitivity to the allergen and thus reduce the risk of accidental reactions. If it proves effective, the child needs to continue to have a small amount of it in their diet on a regular basis. Without this, they will be allergic again. New research has suggested that OIT in young children (under 5) still in the window where they may spontaneously outgrow their allergy, may be more likely to do so as a result of OIT.

There are three (3) parts of the process: the initial dose escalation phase, up-dosing phase, and the maintenance phase.

• The initial dose escalation phase must be completed at the start of the process and will vary depending on the treatment but as well as having the first dose(s) it is also an opportunity to explain the whole programme to you in detail. As long as the dose is tolerated, you can progress to the next stage.
• There are between seven (7) and eleven (11) steps of the up-dosing phase depending on the treatment programme. The first dose of each up-dosing level is given under direct supervision, because this is when there is the highest risk of a reaction. If you tolerate the first dose of a new level, you will continue to take that dose level every day at home. The food allergen should be taken with a meal at the same time each day. You will return to the clinic every two (2) weeks during the up-dosing phase although this can be longer if preferred. Once all up-dosing steps are complete you will begin the maintenance phase.
• During the maintenance phase you will continue to take agreed maintenance dose every day. After completion of a year of treatment, you may wish to change the form of the allergen to something your child prefers.

This will depend on the food but usually it would be mixed up with a small amount of a semi-solid food such as pudding, applesauce, or yogurt but not a liquid. Always wash your hands immediately after handling the allergen.

Side effects are common, especially in older children, but are usually mild. The most common side effects are stomach pain/cramping and itching of the mouth or throat. These symptoms are usually mild and typically do not require intervention. Antihistamines, or reducing the dose can be helpful if these are problematic. It is important to be aware that food allergens can cause severe life-threatening reactions, known as anaphylaxis, in the same way that the food in other forms can do. Symptoms include but are not limited to: trouble breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, throat tightness, trouble swallowing, swelling of lips, face, tongue or eyes, dizziness, fainting, severe stomach pain, vomiting, and/or diarrhoea. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop and seek medical attention immediately. You will be trained in recognising and treating severe reactions at the start of treatment.

Food OIT is not a cure for allergy. It is important to continue to avoid the allergen and continue to carry an epinephrine auto-injector wherever you go.