The Itch: Allergies, Asthma, Eczema & Immunology13 Nov 2025

#136 - Food Allergy Treatments: What to Ask Your Doctor

Avoidance has long been the standard for managing food allergies. But new options, such as oral immunotherapy (OIT) and biologic medications like Xolair (omalizumab), are changing the landscape. With more choices available, many patients and parents are wondering how to start the conversation with their allergist and what questions to ask.

Kortney and Dr. Payel Gupta talk with Dr. Shahzad Mustafa, a board-certified allergist and immunologist, about how patients can navigate today’s food allergy treatments with confidence. Together, they explore what to consider before starting OIT or Xolair, how to set realistic expectations, and why strict avoidance is still the right choice for many families.

What we cover about food allergy treatment options:

Food Allergy Avoidance: Why it remains an effective and valid approach for many, and how to make it work in daily life, including the nuances that make every case unique.
Oral Immunotherapy (OIT): What it involves, who it’s best suited for, and what families should know about time, cost, and safety.
Xolair (omalizumab): How this injection therapy works to reduce reactions from accidental exposures and what it doesn’t do.
Setting expectations: How to talk with your allergist about your goals, quality of life, and what “success” really looks like.

More episodes about food allergies

More resources about food allergies

Food Allergy Treatment & Management

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Made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network.

Thanks to Genentech for sponsoring today’s episode.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.

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