Show Notes
Sponsored by Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, and Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Intended for US Audiences. This information is for general purposes only and is not a substitute for consulting your healthcare provider about food allergy treatment. Brooke and Dr. Ari Zelig have been financially compensated by Genentech and Novartis for their participation in this episode.
What does it actually look like to build a full, independent life while managing severe food allergies? In this episode, Whitney is joined by Brooke, a 28-year-old medical student living with food allergies, alongside board-certified allergist and immunologist Dr. Ari Zelig, for an honest conversation about navigating everything from childhood birthday parties to dating, travel, restaurants, and everyday situations involving food. Brooke shares how being diagnosed with multiple food allergies forced her to become her own advocate at a young age, and how they ultimately shaped her confidence, relationships, and the physician she hopes to become.
Dr. Zelig also discusses the importance of individualized food allergy management and shares information about a treatment option, XOLAIR (omalizumab), an FDA-approved prescription medication for subcutaneous use that can help reduce allergic reactions to multiple foods that may occur after accidental exposure in people with IgE-mediated food allergies one year of age and up. While taking XOLAIR you should continue to avoid all foods to which you are allergic.
Together, Dr. Zelig and Brooke explore how patients can work with their allergists to create a plan that helps them navigate life while prioritizing safety. Whether you're living with food allergies yourself, supporting someone who is, or simply want to better understand the daily realities, this episode offers practical insights, encouragement, and a reminder that food allergies don't have to define your life.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with food allergies, talk to your allergist and ask about XOLAIR. You can also find more information at XOLAIR.com. XOLAIR is one of several available treatment options for IgE-mediated food allergy and it may not be appropriate for all patients.
What is XOLAIR? XOLAIR® (omalizumab) for subcutaneous use is an injectable prescription medicine used to treat food allergy in people 1 year of age and older to reduce allergic reactions that may occur after accidentally eating one or more foods to which you are allergic. While taking XOLAIR you should continue to avoid all foods to which you are allergic. It is not known if XOLAIR is safe and effective in people with food allergy under 1 year of age.
XOLAIR should not be used for the emergency treatment of any allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
What is the most important information I should know about XOLAIR?
Severe allergic reaction. A severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can happen when you receive XOLAIR. The reaction can occur after the first dose, or after many doses. It may also occur right after a XOLAIR injection or days later. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition and can lead to death. Go to the nearest emergency room right away if you have any of these symptoms of an allergic reaction: • wheezing, shortness of breath, cough, chest tightness, or trouble breathing • low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, rapid or weak heartbeat, anxiety, or feeling of “impending doom” • flushing, itching, hives, or feeling warm • swelling of the throat or tongue, throat tightness, hoarse voice, or trouble swallowing
Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely for symptoms of an allergic reaction while you are receiving XOLAIR and for a period of time after treatment is initiated. Your healthcare provider should talk to you about getting medical treatment if you have symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Please listen to the Important Safety Information throughout and stay tuned for additional safety information at the
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