Pectin allergy is not very common, but it can be a source of allergy for patients sensitive to cashew and pistachio. Food allergy is estimated to affect 6-8% of children in the United states and it is associated with a risk of anaphylaxis. Despite avoidance to culprit foods, hidden allergens can be a source of […]
Statins for Asthma, do they help?
Statins for asthma have been recently looked at as they have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Asthma is a respiratory syndrome defined by reversible airway obstruction and increased hyperreactivity of the airways. The estimated prevalence in some studies show asthma prevalence up to 13% worldwide. Statins are prescribed for elevated cholesterol and prevention of cardiovascular disease. […]
Are Two EpiPens Really Necessary?
Having two epipens has become more difficult for patients due to recent shortages, rising prices and manufacturing difficulties. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction characterized by skin, respiratory and gastrointestinal allergy symptoms with a rapid onset. Anaphylaxis affects both adults and children and it can occur up to 2% of the population. Among pediatrics, the […]
Tralokinumab for Asthma
Tralokinumab is an IL-13 neutralizing monoclonal antibody being investigated for severe asthma. The success of neutralization of IL-5 for the treatment of severe eosinophilic asthma has increased investigation into the therapeutic potential of other type 2 cytokines, including IL-13. 3 recent trials have been conducted to assess the efficacy of tralokinumab, an IL-13 neutralizing mAb, […]
Accidental Food Allergy Reactions
Accidental food allergy reactions to food are frequent and can be severe and even fatal. Food allergy is a serious health problem affecting 1-3% of the population. For many patients with food allergy, these allergies are best managed by avoidance of the allergenic food. Legislation on food labeling is implemented in most regions of the […]
Inhaled Triple Therapy for Respiratory Disease
Inhaled triple therapy is being recommended for patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as a step up therapy. Inhaled triple therapy consists of 3 ingredients; Inhaled corticosteroids Long acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMA) Long acting Beta agonists (LABAs) This is considered a step up therapy for patients with frequent exacerbations. Two recent studies were […]
Solar Urticaria (Sun Hives)
Solar urticaria, is a type of skin response after exposure to the sun. There is an abrupt onset of redness, swelling and itching in light exposed areas. The light waves that trigger solar urticaria are usually within the range of 400 to 700 nm (visible light) and 320 to 400 nm (UV A). Patients often […]
Eosinophilic Esophagitis Diet
Elimination eosinophilic esophagitis diets are effective most patients, but their use is limited by the complexity of the diets and the need for multiple endoscopies. Up to three fourths of patients are found to have just one or two food triggers, most commonly milk and wheat/gluten. Complete elimination diets are hard to follow and difficult […]
Xolair for Food Allergies granted Breakthrough Therapy
Xolair for food allergies may become a treatment in the future as the FDA has granted Breakthrough Therapy Designation for Xolair. Xolair (omalizumab) would be used for the prevention of severe allergic reactions following accidental exposure to 1 or more foods in patients with allergies. From the FDA; Breakthrough Therapy designation is a process designed to […]
Nasonex OTC coming soon
Nasonex OTC will soon be available without a prescription. Perrigo Company announced today that it has entered into a licensing agreement with Merck (the manufacturer of Nasonex) for the exclusive rights in the United States to pursue regulatory approval for a non-prescription, Nasonex OTC (mometasone furoate monohydrate) Nasal Spray. Nasonex is currently available by prescription […]