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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 of allergen immunotherapy are subcutaneous and sublingual.
Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT): Otherwise known as “allergy shots” these are given weekly just under the skin in gradually increasing doses, followed by regular twice monthly maintenance injections. Treatment commonly continues for at least three to five years before discontinuation. SCIT must be given in a medical office under supervision.
Subcutaneous Allergen Immunotherapy
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT): An allergen drop is placed under the tongue. SLIT can be self administered at home as it is considered very safe. Just like allergy shots, treatment commonly continues for at least three to five years before discontinuation.
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 (less than 5% of the time), subcutaneous immunotherapy can cause a systemic allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. This is why allergy shots are administered in a medically supervised setting and patients must wait under observation for at least 30 minutes after each injection.
Swelling seen with allergy shots
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is considered extremely safe procedure which is why it can be administered at home. Systemic reactions to SLIT are very rare. Common side effects include itchy mouth and tongue but this is usually temporary.