Immunotherapy: A Long-Term Solution for Allergies
Allergies can disrupt your daily life, causing sneezing, congestion, itchy skin, and even breathing difficulties. While medications help manage symptoms, they don’t address the root cause. That’s where allergen immunotherapy comes in—a proven treatment that retrains your immune system, reducing allergy symptoms over time and even preventing the development of asthma.
What Is Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy works by gradually introducing small, controlled doses of allergens to your body, helping your immune system become less reactive over time. Instead of just masking symptoms, it modifies the natural course of allergic diseases, offering long-term relief.
Who Can Benefit from Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is clinically proven to help with:
✔ Nasal allergies (allergic rhinitis) – Reduces sneezing, congestion, and sinus issues triggered by pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold.
✔ Asthma – Decreases inflammation and prevents worsening of symptoms.
✔ Atopic dermatitis (eczema) – Improves skin symptoms by targeting allergic triggers.
✔ Preventing asthma in at-risk patients – Studies show immunotherapy can stop allergies from progressing into asthma.
✔ Reducing medication use – Many patients rely less on antihistamines, nasal sprays, and asthma inhalers.
✔ Preventing life-threatening allergic reactions – For people allergic to bee stings, wasps, and fire ants, immunotherapy can prevent severe anaphylaxis.
How Is Immunotherapy Given?
There are two scientifically backed forms of allergen immunotherapy:
1️⃣ Injection Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)
The gold standard for treating multiple allergies.
✔ Most effective for allergic rhinitis, asthma, and eczema.
✔ Weekly injections during the buildup phase (4-6 months), then monthly maintenance shots for 3-5 years.
✔ Must be administered in a doctor’s office with a 30-minute observation period to monitor for rare reactions.
✔ Proven long-term benefits even after stopping treatment.
How effective is it?
Allergen injection immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a form of long-term treatment that decreases symptoms for many people with allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, conjunctivitis (eye allergy) or stinging insect allergy. (Source: AAAAI)
2️⃣ Sublingual Immunotherapy (Allergy Drops)
✔ Convenient—taken daily at home under the tongue.
✔ Works best for single or limited allergens (e.g., pollen).
✔ Less effective than shots for people with multiple allergies.
✔ Side effects: mild itching or swelling in the mouth.
✔ Requires 3-5 years of consistent use for lasting results.
Which one is right for you?
A board-certified Allergy & Immunology specialist can determine the best approach based on your allergies, symptoms, and lifestyle.
Why Choose Immunotherapy?
1. The ONLY treatment that alters the course of allergic diseases
Research shows that AIT can help prevent the development of new allergies over time.
2. Proven to reduce asthma risk
A major study found that patients receiving AIT had a significantly lower chance of developing asthma (only 24% compared to 44% in untreated individuals).
3. Long-term benefits even after stopping treatment
Studies show that the benefits of AIT can last up to 7 years (we think it can be lifelong) after completing treatment.
4. Reduces medication reliance
Allergen specific immunotherapy modulates the immune system to require less medications such as inhalers, antihistamines, and steroid creams.
5. A safe & effective alternative to lifelong allergy medications
Studies have found that Allergen Specific Immunotherapy reduces medication use and saves you money.
Is Immunotherapy Safe?
Yes! When administered by a qualified Allergy & Immunology specialist, immunotherapy is safe and well-tolerated. Severe reactions are rare—studies show the risk of fatal anaphylaxis for injection immunotherapy is less than 1 in a million injections.
⚠️ Beware of untrained providers! Only a board-certified allergist should formulate and administer immunotherapy to ensure proper dosing and safety.
Take Control of Your Allergies Today!
If you’re tired of relying on medications and want lasting relief, immunotherapy could be the solution. Schedule a consultation with a qualified Allergy & Immunology specialist to see if you’re a good candidate.
Ready to breathe easier and live symptom-free? Contact us today!
