A study published Oct. 26, 2016, in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology concludes that a wearable skin patch may help children who are allergic to peanuts by delivering small doses of peanut protein. The therapy works by training the immune system to tolerate small amounts of peanuts.
The study, published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, found that nearly half of those treated with the Viaskin Peanut patch for one year were able to consumer at least 10 times more peanut protein than before.
Those from 4 years old to 11 years old had the greatest benefit, while participants older than 12 didn’t see as much of an effect. The research leaders say the immunotherapy treatment is “potentially effective,” but further investigation is needed.
The Food and Drug Administration hasn’t yet approved the Viaskin Peanut patch.