On January 31st, 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Palforzia to reduce the risk of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, that may occur with accidental exposure to peanuts. Peanut allergy is a condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies small amounts of peanut as harmful. When this occurs individuals may experience skin reactions (e.g., hives, redness, or swelling), digestive discomfort, or more dangerous reactions, such as constriction of the throat and airway.
Palforzia works by gradually exposing the patient to increasing amounts of peanut allergen over several months. Once increased to the maintenance dose this medication can reduce the individuals immune response if exposed to peanuts.
The American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology estimates approximately 2.2% of children and adolescents have a peanut allergy. With a list price of nearly $11,000 per year, this medication is expected to have a fairly significant impact to employers pharmacy spend.
Crumdale Partners first reported about medications for peanut allergies in October (see HERE). Crumdale expects an additional medication for peanut allergies the first half of 2020.
Additional Resources: FDA, WSJ, Washington Post