#44 - What is Oral Immunotherapy

Oral Immunotherapy, OIT, has been on a lot of food allergy minds lately, especially with the FDA approval of PALFORZIA (the peanut pill). Dr. G and Kortney talk with Dr. Gharfeh is a double board-certified pediatric trained allergist/immunologist practicing in Oklahoma City. She has first-hand knowledge when it comes to OIT as she practices in clinic and has recently undergone OIT with her daughter.  What we cover in this episode on Oral Immunotherapy The types of immunotherapy including OIT, SLIT, and epicutaneous. The current research and status of OIT for the different allergens. The status of peanut for OIT.  Unpack the advantages and disadvantages of Palforzia, the FDA-approved peanut pill. Outline the process of OIT at the allergist office. What happens is if you react during OIT. How allergists ensure the protein in the doses are used for OIT.  The pros and cons of doing oral immunotherapy as a patient and as a family such as the time commitment and risks of OIT. The reason why OIT is mostly targeted to under 18s.  The side effects of OIT. Risk of developing EOE during OIT.  Current unknown of OIT - will the desensitization last? How long will the patient need to take the maintenance dose? What should a patient think about when considering OIT How many foods you can do at a time with OIT Dr Gharfeh shares her personal experience doing OIT with her daughter Additional resources on Oral Immunotherapy Palforza: https://www.palforzia.com/ Dr. Wasserman, the protocol Dr. Garfeh and her colleagues follow: https://www.allergypartners.com/northtexas/doctors/?providerid=796 Dr. Maya N. Gharfeh's bio: https://oklahomaallergy.com/team/maya-gharfeh/  Dr. Garfeh on Instagram @allergistmama and Twitter @Maya Gharfeh MD How to claim CME credits from this episode: https://www.adaptrack.com/welcome/the-itch-podcast