Oral Immunotherapy
Oral immunotherapy (OIT) helps kids with food allergies reduce or prevent severe reactions if they are accidentally exposed.
It works by giving the child very tiny amounts of the food they are allergic to in the doctor’s office under medical supervision. The amounts start very small but get a little bigger over time.
OIT is not a guaranteed cure of a food allergy. In some cases, kids are able to consume more than their expected goal dose of a food allergen.
The therapy is most effective for children aged 3 to 5 years old. In select cases, it can begin as early as infancy, and it is also applicable for teenagers up to the age of 17.
Akron Children’s is currently offering OIT for these food allergens:
- Peanut
- Cashew
Call 330-543-0140 to make an appointment to see if your child might qualify for OIT, or if you have additional questions.
Department: 330-543-0140
