ORAL IMMUNOTHERAPY (OIT) FOR FOOD ALLERGIES

WHAT IS ORAL IMMUNOTHERAPY (OIT)?

Oral Immunotherapy, or OIT, is a medically supervised treatment that involves giving small, gradually increasing amounts of a food allergen to an individual.

The goal of OIT for food allergies is to raise the threshold that triggers a reaction. In other words, it helps the body become less sensitive to a specific food over time. This can protect against accidental exposure and reduce the severity of reactions.

OIT is not a cure for food allergies. Patients will still need to avoid their allergen, carry emergency medication like epinephrine, and follow safety precautions. However, many patients experience meaningful improvement in safety and quality of life.

HOW OIT WORKS

OIT is a step-by-step process that takes place under the guidance of a board-certified allergist.

Treatment typically includes:

• Gradual exposure: Patients start with a very small dose of the allergen that is unlikely to cause a reaction.
• Supervised dose increases: Doses are increased slowly over time, often during in-office visits, to ensure safety and monitor tolerance.
• Maintenance phase: Once a target dose is reached, patients continue taking a daily dose at home to maintain their level of protection.

This process can take several months to years and requires consistency and close communication with your allergist.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR OIT

OIT may be an option for both children and adults with confirmed food allergies.

Typical candidates include:

• Children with peanut, milk, egg, or other food allergies
• Patients with a history of reactions to small amounts of a food
• Families looking to reduce the risk of accidental exposure
• Individuals willing to commit to a structured, long-term treatment plan

The most important first step is a proper evaluation by an allergist. At Dakota Allergy & Asthma, we perform testing and review your history to determine if OIT is a safe and appropriate option.

FOODS COMMONLY TREATED WITH OIT

OIT is most commonly used for:

• Peanut
• Milk
• Egg
• Tree nuts
• Wheat

Treatment plans are individualized based on each patient’s specific allergies and goals.

BENEFITS OF ORAL IMMUNOTHERAPY

Many patients choose OIT because it offers more than just avoidance.

Potential benefits include:

• Reduced risk from accidental exposure
• Increased tolerance to small amounts of the allergen
• Greater confidence in daily activities, school, and social settings
• Peace of mind for families managing food allergies

While results vary, studies have shown that many patients can achieve a level of desensitization that improves safety in real-world situations.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING TREATMENT

Starting OIT begins with a comprehensive visit to Dakota Allergy & Asthma.

Your experience typically includes:

• Initial consultation and testing: We confirm your food allergy and determine whether OIT is the right treatment for you.
• In-office dose escalation: Early doses and dose increases are done in a controlled setting for safety.
• At-home dosing: Daily dosing continues at home, with specific instructions for monitoring and activity after each dose.

Because OIT requires a long-term commitment, our team works closely with you to ensure you feel supported.

WHY CHOOSE DAKOTA ALLERGY & ASTHMA FOR OIT

Choosing the right provider matters when it comes to food allergy treatment.

At Dakota Allergy & Asthma, your care is led by experienced, board-certified allergists who specialize in diagnosing and managing food allergies. We take a personalized approach to every patient, creating treatment plans that fit your needs, lifestyle, and goals.

We understand that food allergies impact more than just your health. They affect your confidence, routines, and peace of mind. Our goal is to provide clear answers, safe treatment options, and ongoing support.

And most importantly, when you’re ready to take the next step:

Yes, We Will See You!

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

If you or your child is living with a food allergy in Sioux Falls or the surrounding area, you do not have to manage it alone.

Learn more about Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) and advanced food allergy treatment options at Dakota Allergy & Asthma.

Schedule an appointment with a board-certified allergist in Sioux Falls today
and take the next step toward safer, more confident daily living.