Food Allergy Treatment Options: Avoidance, Oral Immunotherapy & Biologic Therapy

Food allergies affect children and adults and can have both physical and emotional effects. While avoiding known food allergens remains an important part of food allergy management, advances in treatment have expanded options for some patients and families.

Katherine McCormack, MD, a board-certified allergist at Boulder Medical Center in Louisville, Colorado, explains current food allergy treatment options, including avoidance, oral immunotherapy (OIT), and biologic therapy, and why treatment should be individualized for each patient.

What Are the Treatment Options for Food Allergies?

Food allergy management may include avoidance, oral immunotherapy, biologic therapy, or a combination of approaches. The appropriate treatment depends on factors such as the food allergen, risk of reaction, age, medical history, and individual goals.

Avoiding Food Allergens

Avoiding known trigger foods remains an important part of food allergy management, particularly for people at risk for anaphylaxis or those who are not pursuing an active treatment such as oral immunotherapy.

An allergist can also help patients and families develop a plan to recognize and respond to accidental exposure.

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) for Food Allergies

Oral immunotherapy (OIT) involves giving a patient small, gradually increasing amounts of a food allergen under medical guidance. The goal is to increase the amount of the allergen a person can tolerate and reduce the risk of a reaction from accidental exposure.

Palforzia is an FDA-approved oral immunotherapy for peanut allergy. An allergy specialist may also use oral immunotherapy for other food allergens.

Biologic Therapy: Omalizumab (Xolair)

Omalizumab, sold under the brand name Xolair, is an injectable biologic medication that targets part of the allergic immune response.

For certain patients with food allergies, Xolair may help reduce the risk of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, following accidental exposure to one or more foods. Depending on the individual, biologic therapy may be considered on its own or as part of a broader food allergy treatment plan.

How Is Food Allergy Treatment Chosen?

No single approach works for everyone with a food allergy. Beyond the medical risks, food allergies can affect daily routines, school, travel, eating outside the home, and a family’s overall quality of life.

Treatment decisions should consider both medical needs and the practical and emotional impact of living with food allergies.

Food allergies can be life-threatening and bring a great deal of stress and anxiety, not just for the individual, but for their entire support system. That’s why treatment should never be one-size-fits-all. Whether it’s strict avoidance, oral immunotherapy, injectable biologics, or a combination, our goal is always to help patients and families feel safe, supported, and empowered in their food allergy management.

Resources for Families Managing Food Allergies

• Palforzia.com – FDA-approved OIT for peanut allergy
• Xolair.com – Biologic therapy for allergies
• Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE)
• Allergy & Asthma Network
• JACI in Practice: Oral Immunotherapy Review

Let’s Talk

Food allergies can affect both children and adults, often requiring major lifestyle changes and ongoing support. Whether it’s a toddler with a new peanut allergy or a teen preparing for summer camp, timely diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference. Our allergy and asthma specialists in Boulder and Louisville, CO can help. Make an appointment today!