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What is allergen immunotherapy?
Allergen immunotherapy is a long-term treatment that gradually exposes a person to controlled doses of an allergen to reduce the immune system’s sensitivity to it. Unlike antihistamines or nasal sprays, which mainly suppress symptoms, immunotherapy can modify the underlying allergic response and may provide lasting benefit after treatment ends.
It is commonly used for:
Allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis caused by pollen, dust mites, or animal dander
Selected cases of allergic asthma
Eczema
Serious allergy to bee, wasp, hornet, or other insect stings
The main forms are:
Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT): Allergy shots are given in gradually increasing doses, followed by maintenance injections. Treatment commonly continues for at least three to five years. SCIT must be given in a medical office under supervision.
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT): An allergen tablet or drop is placed under the tongue. SLIT can be self administered at home.
Subcutaneous Allergen Immunotherapy
Sublingual Allergen Immunotherapy
Are there side effects from allergen immunotherapy?
Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) is considered safe however, local reactions—such as injection-site swelling or mouth itching—are relatively common. Rarely, immunotherapy can cause a systemic allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, which is why allergy shots are administered in a medically supervised setting and patients must wait for at least 30 minutes after each injection.
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is considered extremely safe procedure which is why it can be administered at home. Systemic reactions are very rare. Common side effects include itchy of the mouth and tongue.
Swelling seen with allergy shots