The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved a new drug called Xolair developed by Genentech to aid in reducing severe allergic reactions from accidental exposure to certain foods. Xolair is the first medication approved by the FDA to assist in protecting people against multiple food allergies. While the drug is not meant to be used during an allergic reaction, it is designed to be taken regularly to decrease the risk of reactions over time.

Kelly Stone, from the FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, mentioned that although Xolair does not eliminate food allergies or permit patients to freely consume allergens, its repeated use can lessen the health impact if accidental exposure occurs. Potential side effects of Xolair include fever and a reaction at the injection site, with a warning that the medication itself can induce anaphylaxis.

Currently, approximately 1 in 16 adults in the U.S. have a food allergy, disproportionately affecting women and Black adults, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is no known cure for food allergies. Xolair, previously approved for various conditions like persistent asthma, chronic hives, and chronic inflammatory sinus disease with nasal polyps, is administered through injections every two or four weeks.

A study supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases showcased Xolair's effectiveness in helping allergic individuals tolerate certain foods. During a trial involving 168 patients allergic to peanuts and other foods, it was found that after 4 to 5 months of Xolair use, 68% could consume about 2.5 peanuts without experiencing adverse symptoms. Similar positive outcomes were reported for those allergic to eggs, milk, and cashews, based on the study's results which involved small quantities of each respective food.

The approval of Xolair offers hope for individuals with multiple food allergies and provides a new avenue for managing these conditions.