Peanut allergen extract

Peanut allergen extract is used to help lessen the severity of an allergic reaction (including anaphylaxis) if you accidentally come into contact with peanuts. Peanut allergen extract will not work for an allergic reaction that has already started.

Peanut allergen extract is for adults and children who are at least 4 years old and have been diagnosed with a peanut allergy. Peanut allergen extract will not help with allergic reactions to other foods. Always get emergency medical help if you have an allergic reaction.

Peanut allergen extract is only available through a special program. You must be registered in the program and understand the risks and benefits of this medicine.

Peanut allergen extract may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

When you start using peanut allergen extract (and any time your dose is increased), you will receive your first dose in a hospital or clinic setting. Your breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs will be closely monitored for at least 60 minutes after your dose.

Your dose may need to be delayed if you are not feeling well before starting this treatment.

Do not swallow a capsule whole or inhale the powder medicine. Open the capsule or powder packet and sprinkle the medicine into a spoonful of applesauce, yogurt, or pudding (do not mix with liquid). Stir well and swallow the mixture right away without chewing. Do not save it for later use.

You may need to use up to 6 capsules to get the correct dose. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Wash your hands after handling a capsule or powder packet.

You may be more likely to have an allergic reaction:

• if you have uncontrolled asthma;
• if you are sick with a virus;
• during your menstrual period;
• during vigorous exercise or exposure to hot water;
• if you are not getting enough sleep;
• if you are not getting enough to eat; or
• if you are taking an NSAID (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug).

The timing of your doses may need to be adjusted to avoid using peanut allergen extract while any of the above conditions exist.

Store peanut allergen extract in the original packaging in a refrigerator; do not freeze.

You must keep injectable epinephrine with you at all times while you are using peanut allergen extract. Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your epinephrine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand all instructions.

You should not use peanut allergen extract if you have uncontrolled asthma, or issues with your esophagus or digestive tract caused by increased eosinophils (a type of white blood cell).

Peanut allergen extract can cause a severe or life-threatening allergic reaction. Your doctor may prescribe an epinephrine injection to keep on hand in case you have an allergic reaction.

Call your doctor or seek emergency medical help if you experience an allergic reaction, even if you have used epinephrine to treat it.

You should not use peanut allergen extract if you have:

• untreated or uncontrolled asthma; or
• problems with your esophagus or digestive tract that are caused by higher than normal levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell).

You may not be able to use peanut allergen extract if:

• you are unable to give yourself an epinephrine injection in the case of an allergic reaction; or
• an allergic reaction would be life-threatening to you because of a medical condition you have or a medicine you use.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• asthma; or
• any disease related to increased eosinophils.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Peanut allergen extract can cause a severe or life-threatening allergic reaction. Stop using this medicine and get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction:

• chest discomfort, wheezing, trouble breathing;
• tightness in your throat;
• trouble speaking or swallowing;
• swelling of your face, lips, eyes, or tongue;
• itchy, raised bumps on your skin;
• flushing (sudden warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
• severe stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea; or
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out.

Your doctor may prescribe epinephrine injection to keep on hand in case you have an allergic reaction. Get emergency medical help if you have an allergic reaction, even if you have used epinephrine to treat it.

Also call your doctor right away if you have symptoms of inflammation in your stomach or esophagus:

• vomiting undigested food;
• trouble swallowing (food getting stuck in throat);
• feeling sick; or
• burning in your mouth, throat, or chest.

Common side effects of peanut allergen extract may include:

• itching or burning in your mouth;
• cough, wheezing, trouble breathing;
• tightness or irritation in your throat;
• rash, itchy skin;
• itching in or around your ear;
• runny nose, sneezing; or
• stomach pain, nausea, vomiting.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include trouble swallowing, trouble breathing, changes in your voice, or a feeling of fullness in your throat.

In addition to taking peanut allergen extract, you should avoid peanuts in your diet.

Other drugs may affect peanut allergen extract, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.