Allergy

Biologics, an advanced allergy treatment method, are medicines made from living organisms. Two commonly used biologic medications are Omalizumab and Dupilumab. 

Omalizumab is a monoclonal antibody that works by binding to IgE, preventing it from triggering the release of histamine and other chemicals that cause allergic symptoms such as itching, swelling, and difficulty in breathing. Omalizumab is typically used to treat allergic asthma and chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives). It may be used as combined therapy during oral immunotherapy for foods. 

Dupilumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets a different pathway in the immune system involved in allergic reactions. Specifically, it blocks the action of two proteins called interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13), which are involved in the inflammation and itching associated with allergic conditions such as atopic dermatitis (eczema) and allergic asthma. 

Biologics usually require injections every two to four weeks for a period of time. These advanced treatments are typically reserved for patients who have not responded to or cannot tolerate other types of allergy medications, such as antihistamines and corticosteroids. Besides omalizumab and dupilumab, there is a pipeline of biologics for different conditions. Our allergists will discuss the medical approach most appropriate for your individual needs.

With advances in allergy treatments, avoidance no longer needs to be the only approach. HKSH Lee Tak Hong Allergy Centre is a pioneer in sublingual and oral desensitisation for both inhalant and food allergens. The procedures involve the administration of increasing doses of the provoking allergen, e.g. aeroallergens such as house dust mites, cats and dogs, either by the sublingual or subcutaneous route. 

Sublingual and oral immunotherapy can also provide symptom relief to patients with food allergies. At the Centre, one-stop desensitisation services are provided to patients suffering from common food allergies such as milk, egg, peanut, cashew and wheat allergies. It involves the intake of a measured dose of food allergens under close monitoring to desensitise patients. The dose of intake will increase gradually subject to one’s tolerance level during the treatment course.