The treatment for peanut allergy is strict avoidance of peanuts and products that may contain peanuts. In case of accidental exposure, the use of rescue medications such as antihistamines and epinephrine (injectable) in the event of anaphylaxis, which is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction.
There are a few treatment options currently available for peanut allergy, such as:
- Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) - OIT involves gradually increasing the amount of peanuts in a person's diet over time. This can help to desensitize the immune system to peanuts and reduce the severity of allergic reactions.
- Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) - SLIT involves placing drops or tablets containing small amounts of peanuts under the tongue. This can help to desensitize the immune system to peanuts and reduce the severity of allergic reactions.
- Epinephrine auto-injector - This is a prescribed self-injectable device that contains a single dose of epinephrine, a medication that can help to stop an anaphylactic reaction. It's important to carry one of these with you at all times if you have a known severe peanut allergy.
- Antihistamines - These medications can help to relieve symptoms such as itching, hives, and swelling. They are usually taken orally, but they can also be taken in the form of a cream or lotion.
It's important to note that while these treatments may help to reduce the severity of allergic reactions, they are not a cure for peanut allergy.
The best way to prevent a severe reaction is to avoid peanuts and products that may contain peanuts, read food labels carefully and carry an epinephrine auto-injector with you at all times if you have a known severe peanut allergy.
It's also important to work with a healthcare professional, such as allergist/immunologist, who can help you monitor the progress of the treatment and provide guidance on how to manage your allergy.
Source: Vivacare
Last updated : 1/27/2023