While there’s no cure for food allergies, some medications like antihistamines, adrenaline, and omalizumab can help manage symptoms and prevent serious reactions.

There’s no cure for food allergies. The only proven way to manage them is to avoid trigger foods completely, known as elimination. That means reading food labels, preventing cross-contact (when allergens touch safe food), and being cautious when eating out.

However, some medications, like antihistamines and epinephrine (adrenaline), can help reduce or stop symptoms if you are accidentally exposed to a food allergen.

Antihistamines block histamine, a chemical your body releases during an allergic reaction. This can help ease mild symptoms like itching, sneezing, or hives.

Most adults and children over age 2 can take antihistamines. However, always follow your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions.

Antihistamines are usually taken by mouth and are available over the counter (OTC). Common options include:

While antihistamines can relieve mild allergic reactions, they don’t treat severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.

They may also cause side effects like:

Epinephrine (Adrenaline) is the first-line emergency treatment for anaphylaxis, a severe, life threatening allergic reaction.

It works fast by relaxing the airways, increasing blood pressure, and reducing swelling. Up until recently, it’s always been given as an injection using an auto-injector like:

However, you can now also get a nasal spray to treat anaphylaxis. Neffy was approved in 2024, which means you have an alternative option to injections.

Anyone at risk for anaphylaxis should carry an epinephrine auto-injector or nasal spray at all times.

Adults and children over 30 kg typically get a 0.3 to 0.5 mg dose injected into the muscle or under the skin or a single dose of nasal spray in one nostril, followed by a second dose if there’s no improvement.

Studies show epinephrine is most effective when used immediately after symptoms begin. But even after using it, you should still call emergency services immediately.

Commonly reported side effects of the medication include:

It’s important to regularly check the expiration dates of your medication and learn how to use your injector or nasal spray before an emergency happens. It’s also a good idea that those close to you also know how to administer your medication to you, should they need to.

Omalizumab, sold under the brand name Xolair, is used to treat moderate to severe allergic asthma, chronic hives, and some food allergies.

In February of 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved omalizumab for people 1 year and older with IgE-mediated food allergies.

It helps reduce allergic reactions to peanuts and other common foods by blocking immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody involved in allergic reactions.

A healthcare professional gives the injection every 2 to 4 weeks. Commonly reported side effects include:

  • injection site reactions
  • fever

A 2024 study review found that omalizumab may help reduce the severity of accidental reactions. But it’s not a cure and doesn’t replace staying away from the foods that trigger your allergy.

Immunotherapy

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology (ACAAI), even small amounts of an allergen can cause a reaction, especially in children. That’s why strict avoidance of food allergens is important.

However, researchers are exploring ways to reduce allergic reactions. Oral immunotherapy (OIT) may help by slowly exposing the body to small, increasing amounts of the allergen under medical supervision.

The only FDA-approved OIT option right now is Palforzia, which helps reduce peanut allergy reactions in children ages4 to 17. This treatment is generally given at an allergy clinic. Similar treatments for other allergens, like milk, egg, and tree nuts, are also being looked at, but they are not widely available yet.

Emerging treatments

Researchers are finding new ways to help the body react less to food allergens. However, many of which are still in early stages or clinical trials.

  • Epicutaneous immunotherapy (EPIT): This uses a skin patch containing tiny amounts of allergen to help the immune system get used to it. In a phase 3 trial, patches like Viaskin helped reduce peanut allergy reactions in children over a year.
  • Biologic medications: These target specific immune responses. Besides omalizumab, 2022 research shows newer anti-IgE drugs like ligelizumab and UB‑221 are being tested in early trials for food allergies.
  • DNA-based vaccines: These are being studied to help the immune system respond more safely to allergens. A 2022 animal study showed promise for treating lifelong allergies like shellfish and tree nuts.

While these options are promising, they remain under investigation. If they continue to prove safe and effective, some could become part of future treatment options.

Next steps:

To find out which medication or treatment may work best for your food allergies, speak with an allergist or immunologist. Your doctor may be able to refer you to one of these specialists.

With the right treatment plan, you can start to feel better prepared for situations where you may come into contact with your allergen.

Eliminating trigger foods remains the most effective way to manage food allergies. But certain medications can help treat symptoms, especially in emergencies.

For instance, antihistamines help with mild symptoms, while epinephrine treats severe reactions. Treatments like omalizumab or OIT may also help under medical supervision.

Consider talking with a healthcare professional to explore the best treatment depending on your symptoms, medical history, and allergy type.