Allergy Immunotherapy

What is allergy immunotherapy?

Allergy immunotherapy is a long-term treatment that helps reduce sensitivity to allergens. It gradually exposes your immune system to controlled amounts of an allergen, allowing your body to build tolerance over time. 

It’s commonly used to treat allergies caused by pollen, dust mites, pet dander, mold, and insect stings. Unlike medications that only manage symptoms, allergy immunotherapy addresses the root cause of allergic reactions, potentially leading to long-term relief.

How does allergy immunotherapy work?

Two primary forms of allergy immunotherapy include:

Allergy shots

Subcutaneous immunotherapy, or SCIT, involves regular injections, typically starting with weekly doses and gradually transitioning to maintenance doses every few weeks.

Allergy drops/tablets

Sublingual immunotherapy, or SLIT, involves placing drops or dissolvable tablets under your tongue each day. This method is often used for specific allergens like pollen or dust mites.

Both methods work by introducing small doses of allergens into your body in increasing amounts. As your immune system becomes accustomed to the allergens, it starts reacting less intensely, reducing allergy symptoms and preventing severe reactions over time.

Am I a candidate for allergy immunotherapy?

You may be a good candidate for allergy immunotherapy if:

• You have moderate to severe allergies that significantly impact your daily life
• Over-the-counter or prescription allergy medications aren’t providing sufficient relief
• You prefer a long-term solution rather than ongoing symptom management
• You have allergic asthma triggered by environmental allergens
• You suffer from insect sting allergies and are at risk for severe reactions

Allergy immunotherapy isn’t suitable for everyone. For example, Dr. Mayer may not recommend it if you have uncontrolled asthma, or take certain medications that could interfere with treatment. 

He can assess your allergies and overall health to determine if this therapy is right for you.

When will I notice results from allergy immunotherapy?

Some patients notice improvements in their allergy symptoms within a few months of immunotherapy, but full benefits typically take 1-3 years to develop. For lasting relief, treatment usually continues for 3-5 years. Over time, you should experience long-term symptom reduction, even after stopping treatment.

Find out if allergy immunotherapy is right for you by calling Allergy & Asthma Institute of Southeast Michigan today. Booking an appointment online is also an option.