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SLIT agents take spotlight in allergy, immunology research news

Healio.com recently reported on the clinical implications of sublingual immunotherapy based on two recent FDA approvals for SLIT agents indicated for grass pollen allergies; recent clinical trials published in the journals, and data presented at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology annual meeting in San Diego.

FDA approves Oralair, first SLIT agent for grass allergies

Oralair (sweet vernal, perennial rye, Orchard, Timothy and Kentucky blue grass mixed pollens allergen extract, Greer/Stallergenes) is indicated as immunotherapy for the treatment of grass pollen-induced allergic rhinitis with or without conjunctivitis confirmed by positive skin test or in vitro testing for grass pollen-specific IgE antibodies for any of the five grass species contained in the product. Plus, read the perspective by James L. Sublett, MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI, FAAP, President-elect of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Read more.

FDA approves Grastek for grass allergies

Grastek (Timothy Grass Pollen Allergen Extract, Merck) sublingual immunotherapy tablets are indicated for the treatment of grass pollen-induced allergic rhinitis with or without conjunctivitis in patients aged 5 to 65 years. In clinical trials, patients treated with the agent exhibited significant reductions in nasal and ocular symptoms, as well as a reduction of symptom-relieving allergy medication use. Read more.

Grass SLIT dependent on pollen exposure

Researchers examined the link between grass pollen counts and total combined rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms and medication scores based on a post hoc analysis of data collected from six trials and seven grass pollen seasons in North America and Europe. Read more.

House dust mite SLIT-tablet advances to phase 3 clinical development

The house dust mite sublingual immunotherapy-tablet, MK-8237 (Merck/ALK-Abello), will be used in a trial of approximately 1,500 patients to investigate its safety and efficacy. Read more.

Sublingual birch pollen immunotherapy yielded sustained improvements to allergic rhinoconjunctivitis

The administration of a sublingual solution of birch-pollen 4 months before and during the pollen period led to a significant and sustained reduction in symptoms associated with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in a recent study. Plus, read the perspective by Linda Cox, MD, FAAAAI, Immediate-Past President of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Read more.

Experts address mechanisms, clinical implications of SLIT agents

During a symposium at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology annual meeting, three researchers reported on the therapeutic mechanisms of sublingual immunotherapy, the status of current trials under FDA review, and how clinicians can implement their use in practice. Read more.

Disclosure: See each study for a full list of relevant financial disclosures.