Current Options for the Treatment of Food Allergy

Abstract

Food allergy is increasing in prevalence; as a result, there is intense focus on developing safe and effective therapies. Current methods of specific immunotherapy include oral, sublingual, and epicutaneous, while nonspecific methods that have been investigated include: Chinese herbal medicine, probiotics, and anti-IgE antibodies. Although some studies have demonstrated efficacy in inducing desensitization, questions regarding safety and the potential for achieving immune tolerance remain. Although some of these therapies demonstrate promise, further investigation is required before their incorporation into routine clinical practice.

Keywords: Anaphylaxis; Desensitization; Food allergy treatment; Food allergy/hypersensitivity; Immunotherapy; Omalizumab; Probiotics; Tolerance.