When you have allergies, you want to know your options. At Michigan ENT and Allergy, we are up to date on the most current allergy treatment. Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) is an alternative way to treat allergies without injections. Yes, you read this right, without needles or injections! Sublingual Immunotherapy treats allergens such as dust mites, cats, dogs, molds, grasses, weeds, and trees when over-the-counter medications and environmental avoidance do not control symptoms.
Allergy testing is used to determine what you are allergic to. These positive items are then mixed into a drop bottle which can then be administered under your tongue on a daily basis.
The daily administration of the drops is easy:
- Open your mouth
- Lift up your tongue then place the correct number of drops under the tongue.
- Do not swallow for 30 seconds. (You can eat or drink before and after the drops have been taken)
Glycerin is mixed with the allergens so there may be a slightly sweet taste. Proper technique is taught prior to completing these drops at home by yourself.
SLIT of all environmental allergens is not FDA approved, therefore it is not readily covered by insurance. This means that treatment with SLIT would be completely an out-of-pocket cost. SLIT is completed for a minimum of three years. If symptom relief has occurred for all consecutive seasons after three years then SLIT can be discontinued.
Are you wondering if SLIT is a good option for you?
Advantages:
- No injections, no needles!
- Less risk of systemic anaphylactic reaction
- It saves time! Treatment is once a day at home and it only takes a couple of minutes out of your day.
- For working people with very busy schedules or for children who can’t miss sports or school or those who vacation for extended periods, this would be a great option for you.
Disadvantages:
- It is considered Off Label Use and therefore is not covered by insurance. Cost is covered completely by you, the patient.
Do you want to get your allergies under better control? Call our office at (616) 994-2770 to schedule an appointment.