Food allergy drug Xolair was approved by the FDA on Friday to help reduce severe allergic reactions elicited by accidental exposure to certain foods, including milk, eggs, and some nuts, reports NPR.
Instead of being used during an allergic reaction, the drug is designed to be taken every few weeks via injection to reduce the risk of reactions over time. The FDA warned that even when taking the drug, people should continue to avoid triggering foods.
"While it will not eliminate food allergies or allow patients to consume food allergens freely, its repeated use will help reduce the health impact if accidental exposure occurs," said Kelly Stone with the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research.
The cost of the medication is between $2,900 and $5,000 a month but can be lower with insurance.
In a drug trial with 168 patients, roughly 68 percent of those who took Xolair for four to five months were able to consume about 2.5 peanuts without provoking allergy symptoms; however, the drug itself can cause some side effects including triggering anaphylaxis. Full Story