Specially formulated toothpaste developed for desensitizing adults with peanut allergies

Researchers have found in a new study that Oral mucosal immunotherapy (OMIT), delivered as a specially formulated toothpaste is safe and convenient option for desensitizing adults with peanut allergies.

The study was presented at the annual meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, held from Nov. 9 to 13 in Anaheim, California.

“OMIT uses a specially formulated toothpaste to deliver allergenic peanut proteins to areas of the oral cavity,” says allergist William Berger, MD, ACAAI member and author of the study. “OMIT as a delivery mechanism for peanut protein has great potential for food allergy desensitization. Due to its targeted delivery and simple administration, it supports the goal of improved adherence.”

This study enrolled 32 adults, age 18-55, with peanut allergy in a 3:1 ratio of active treatment to placebo control. Participants received either an escalating dose of peanut toothpaste or placebo. During this 48-week trial, safety was monitored during the up-dosing and maintenance phases. Exploratory biomarkers were also evaluated, and oral food challenges were conducted. (Exploratory biomarkers are blood tests used to show if a person’s immune system is responding to treatment with an allergen such as peanut.)

“We noted that 100% of those being treated with the toothpaste consistently tolerated the pre-specified protocol highest dose,” says Dr. Berger. “No moderate nor severe systemic reactions occurred in active participants. Non-systemic adverse reactions were mostly local (oral itching), mild, and transient. There was 97% adherence to treatment with no dropouts due to study medication. OMIT appears to be a safe and convenient option for adults with food allergies. The results support continued development of this toothpaste in the pediatric population.”

Additional long-term studies are planned to further evaluate the ongoing use of the toothpaste therapy to provide long-term protection against accidental ingestion of peanut.