A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Palforzia is an innovative oral immunotherapy designed specifically to help reduce the severity of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, caused by accidental exposure to peanuts in children aged 4 to 17 years with a confirmed diagnosis of peanut allergy. Palforzia is a powder that is administered orally and must be used in conjunction with a peanut-avoidant diet. This treatment marks a significant advancement in allergen-specific therapy by providing a controlled way to increase the body's tolerance to peanuts over time.
Before you buy Palforzia, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Palforzia cost.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | Not applicable (biologic) |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Not applicable (biologic) |
Legal status | Prescription required |
Chemical Name | Not applicable (biologic) |
Elimination half-life | Not applicable (biologic) |
Dosage (Strength) | Varies depending on patient's tolerance |
Pregnancy | Category C - Risk cannot be ruled out; human studies inadequate or lacking |
Brands | Palforzia |
Protein binding | Not applicable (biologic) |
PubChem CID | Not applicable (biologic) |
MedlinePlus | Not applicable (biologic) |
ChEBI | Not applicable (biologic) |
ATC code | V06DA - Allergen extracts |
DrugBank | Not applicable (biologic) |
KEGG | Not applicable (biologic) |
Routes of administration | Oral |
Starting Palforzia Treatment:
Administered on a single day under the supervision of a healthcare professional equipped to manage allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis.
Involves several dose increases over a period of approximately 6 months. Each dose must be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Once the maintenance Palforzia dosage is reached, it should be taken daily at home as directed by your healthcare provider.
Administration:
Palforzia must be taken with food. Mix the powder with a small amount of semisolid food such as applesauce, yogurt, or pudding.
Do not inhale the powder or directly touch the mouth with the sachet.
Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions and attend all scheduled appointments during the treatment process.
Palforzia is a standardized oral immunotherapy product containing defatted powder made from Arachis hypogaea L., the scientific name for peanuts. It contains peanut protein, which is the active ingredient used to desensitize the body to peanut allergens.
Palforzia can cause severe allergic reactions that may be life-threatening. Patients must be monitored for at least one hour after administration of the initial dose and during up-dosing.
Patients with uncontrolled or severe asthma should not take Palforzia, as it can increase the risk of a serious allergic reaction.
There is a risk of developing eosinophilic esophagitis; monitor for symptoms such as trouble swallowing, chest pain, or persistent stomach pain.
Must be used in conjunction with a peanut-avoidant diet.
Before starting Palforzia, discuss with your healthcare provider all medications, supplements, and herbal treatments you or your child may be using. It is particularly important to avoid the following during treatment due to potential interactions:
Common side effects include:
Who is eligible to take Palforzia?
Children and teens ages 4 to 17 years with a confirmed diagnosis of peanut allergy are eligible for Palforzia treatment. Eligibility depends on a history of allergic reactions to peanuts and a positive peanut allergen test.
How effective is Palforzia?
Clinical studies have shown that Palforzia can significantly reduce the severity of allergic reactions to peanuts in susceptible individuals when taken as directed over time.
Can Palforzia cure peanut allergies?
No, Palforzia is not a cure for peanut allergies but is designed to reduce the severity of allergic reactions to accidental peanut exposure.
How long does it take to see results from Palforzia?
Patients typically undergo several months of up-dosing before reaching a maintenance dose, which they will continue to take daily. Improvements can be observed as the maintenance phase is reached and continued.
What happens if a dose is missed?
If a dose is missed, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
What should be done if an allergic reaction occurs during treatment?
If a severe allergic reaction occurs, use injectable epinephrine and seek emergency medical help immediately. Contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and instructions.
Can Palforzia be taken with other medications?
Certain medications may interact with Palforzia. Discuss all medications, supplements, and herbal treatments with your healthcare provider before starting Palforzia.
What are the risks of stopping Palforzia suddenly?
Stopping Palforzia suddenly can increase the risk of allergic reactions to peanuts. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dose changes or stopping the medication.
Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Palforzia?
Yes, a peanut-avoidant diet must be maintained throughout the treatment with Palforzia. Discuss any dietary concerns with your healthcare provider.
How is Palforzia administered?
Palforzia is administered orally by mixing the powder with a small amount of semisolid food. It should not be inhaled or come in direct contact with the mouth when being prepared.