Experimental 'Peanut Patch' Desensitizes Toddlers with Peanut Allergies in Late-Stage Trial, Offering Hope for New Treatment Option

A recent trial involving more than 200 children between the ages of 1 and 3 who have peanut allergies demonstrated that an experimental patch named Viaskin could help desensitize toddlers to peanuts. The patch is worn around 22 hours a day for a year and contains a small dose of peanut protein that is absorbed through the skin and helps suppress the allergic response. 

The Viaskin patch offers a non-oral option for children under 4 with peanut allergies, and its goal is to build a protective layer for children so that accidental peanut exposure does not lead to severe reactions. The trial showed that 67% of toddlers could tolerate the equivalent of one to four peanuts after a year of wearing the patch. Moreover, the trial found that the nature of the allergic reaction changed, with a decrease in severe reactions. DBV Technologies plans to submit Viaskin for FDA approval once it gathers more safety data about the patch in toddlers and children.