Allergy Treatments
Depending on the results of your allergy testing, your provider will discuss the best treatment plan for you. Options may include allergen avoidance, over the counter or prescription medications, and for some, allergy immunotherapy.
On This Page
- Allergy Immunotherapy
- What Are Allergy Shots?
- How Often Do I Get Shots?
- When Will I Start to Feel Better?
- Why Continue for 5 Years If I Feel Better?
- Are There Risks to Allergy Shots?
- Can I Receive Shots at Home?
- What Is Rush Immunotherapy?
- What Is Cluster Immunotherapy?
- What Are Allergy Drops?
- Questions?
Allergy Immunotherapy
Allergy immunotherapy (AIT) is a highly effective and personalized solution that treats the root cause of allergies. Medications can only temporarily mask your symptoms while AIT offers a long-term solution to allergies by gradually desensitizing your immune system to the allergens that trigger your symptoms. Allergy immunotherapy is an excellent treatment option for patients allergic to animal dander, airborne allergens like pollen and mold spores, and indoor allergens such as dust mites and cockroaches.
AIT is available in two forms: Subcutaneous Immunotherapy, or allergy injections/shots, and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SCIT), or allergy drops.
Below is an overview to help you understand each option and what to expect.
| Allergy Injections / Shots | Allergy Drops (SLIT) |
|---|---|
| Administered in the office 2-3 times per week | Administered at home |
| Injection copays and cost per serum vial depend on your insurance coverage and deductible | Although not as effective as allergy injections, they offer a safe and reliable alternative for certain patients |
| Self-pay rate per vial is $200 | Allergy Drops are not covered by insurance. Out-of-packet cost is $200-$250 per vial |
| Duration of the therapy is 3-5 years | Each vial lasts one month; average duration of the therapy depends on the patient and their specific allergens |
What Are Allergy Shots?
Subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy, or allergy shots, contain small amounts of the allergens that cause your symptoms. Over time, these injections help your immune system become less sensitive to these allergens, which can:
- Reduce allergy and asthma symptoms
- Decrease the need for daily medications
- Prevent the development of new allergies and reduce the risk of asthma developing in allergic children.
- Improve your overall quality of life
How Often Do I Get Shots?
Allergy shots are given in two phases:
Build-Up Phase
- Starts with a very small dose that gradually increases to a maintenance dose.
- There are 28 injections in the build-up phase.
- Typically given once per week, but you may come 2–3 times per week to reach maintenance faster.
- Accelerated build-up options are also available (see below for Rush and Cluster immunotherapy).
Maintenance Phase
- Once the strongest dose is reached, shots are spaced out to once per month.
- Maintenance injections continue for 3–5 years for lasting results.
When Will I Start to Feel Better?
Most patients notice improvement in 4–6 months, though for some it can take up to one year.
Allergy shots are not a quick fix, but they offer the best long-term improvement for allergy sufferers.
You’ll likely continue using your regular allergy medications during the build-up phase, with the goal of reducing or eliminating them as your shots take effect.
Are There Risks to Allergy Shots?
Because allergy shots contain the substances you’re allergic to, reactions are possible.
Local Reactions
- Itching, redness, or swelling at the injection site.
- Mildly uncomfortable but not dangerous.
Systemic (Generalized) Reactions
Although uncommon, some reactions can be serious. Symptoms may include:
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Hives or widespread itching
- Lightheadedness
- Throat tightness or swelling
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Abdominal cramps
- Low blood pressure
These reactions typically occur within 20 minutes of the injection, which is why it is VERY IMPORTANT to remain in the office for at least 20 minutes after each shot. Notify staff immediately if you experience any symptoms. Early treatment is effective and greatly reduces risk of complications. Severe reactions are extremely rare.
Can I Receive Shots at Home?
No. Home allergy injections are not considered safe or acceptable due to the rare but serious risk of anaphylaxis. If you live far from our office, your primary care provider may be able to administer your injections in their clinic. Please discuss with your AllergySA care team.
What Is Rush Immunotherapy?
Rush immunotherapy is an accelerated version of the build-up phase.
- You’ll spend one full day in the clinic, receiving injections every 30–60 minutes under close supervision.
- This allows you to receive the equivalent of 15 doses in one day, shortening the build-up period by several months and reducing the total number of visits.
- Because reactions are more likely with this method, patients are premedicated for several days before treatment to increase safety.
What Is Cluster Immunotherapy?
Cluster immunotherapy is another option that allows patients to reach maintenance phase quicker.
- You’ll attend 1-hour appointments once per week for 8 weeks, receiving multiple doses each visit under supervision.
- By the 8th week, you can reach your maintenance dose — saving several months off the traditional build-up schedule.
What Are Allergy Drops?
Allergy drops (sublingual immunotherapy, or SLIT) are a reliable, at-home alternative to allergy shots. Allergy drops are administered in small, increasing amounts in liquid drop form, placed under the tongue daily. Drops work well for patients who travel frequently, have difficulty getting to the office for shots, or have a skin condition that prevents injection administration.
Download a printable PDF version of Diagnosing Allergies and What to Expect
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