New NHS treatment gives hope to thousands who suffer from common allergy
New NHS treatment gives hope to thousands who suffer from common allergy
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The first-of-its-kind tablet will offer relief from severe dust mite allergies. A new, first-of-its-kind tablet offering relief from severe dust mite allergies has been approved for NHS use, potentially benefiting thousands. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice) has given the green light to 12 SQ-HDM SLIT, also known as Acarizax, for individuals aged 12 to 65 suffering from persistent moderate to severe house dust mite allergic rhinitis.
![[A dust mite]](https://static.independent.co.uk/s3fs-public/thumbnails/image/2011/11/13/19/Pg-8-bedmates.jpg)
This marks the first treatment Nice has recommended for this condition, estimated to affect around 13,000 people in England. The tablet works by gradually desensitising the body to house dust mites. By administering a fixed daily dose of house dust mite allergy extract, the body builds resistance, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time.
This is particularly beneficial for those whose symptoms don't adequately respond to traditional treatments like steroid nasal sprays and antihistamines. The treatment is taken for three years at home to build up the body’s resistance. Common symptoms of allergic rhinitis include sneezing, an itchy nose, a runny or blocked nose and itchy, red and watery eyes.
In severe cases it can be debilitating and cause facial swelling, fatigue and affect people’s sleep, Nice said. Persistent allergy is when symptoms occur on four or more days a week for a month and have not been helped by standard treatments. People will be eligible for the new pill after medics have looked at their medical history and if they test positive for house dust mite allergy through the allergy skin prick test or specific immunoglobulin E [IgE]) test.
