Considering immunotherapy for your allergies?
You have tried nasal sprays and over-the-counter medications in the past without complete relief. It may be time to consider immunotherapy. The two types of immunotherapy are subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) or sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), better known as allergy injections/shots or allergy drops.
Both forms of immunotherapy can be used effectively to treat environmental allergies. Consistent administration of immunotherapy is necessary to decrease allergy symptoms. Months of treatment will be necessary to produce some reduction in symptoms and years of treatment will be required to obtain lasting relief.
Benefits
- Treats the cause of allergies, not the symptoms
- Closest treatment to a cure
- Helps you avoid medications
- Safe and natural
- We have 10-years of experience with immunotherapy
- Uses the latest allergy protocols
Allergy Injections / Allergy Shots
A standard injection treatment plan usually lasts several years. The treatment involves administering weekly injections until the maintenance dosing is reached. Each allergy injection contains a small amount of the particular substance or substances that trigger your allergic reactions. Once symptom relief is achieved you will move to a maintenance phase and need a shot about once a month. The length of treatment and frequency of injections during the tapering process depends on the symptoms.
Pros:
- Decreases dependence on medication
- Can treat multiple allergies at once
- 90% effective – in existence for over 110 years
- Safe & All-Natural
- Can help to prevent Asthma
- Relief within 3-6 months
- Long lasting relief after therapy is completed
Cons:
- Requires a significant time commitment and regular in-office appointments
- Can worsen allergy symptoms at the onset of treatment
- Injection site pain/discomfort
Allergy Drops
Allergy drops are administered under the tongue and are a viable alternative to allergy injections (SCIT). Allergy drops of all environmental allergens are not FDA-approved and, therefore are not readily covered by insurance. This means that treatment with drops would be completely an out-of-pocket cost. Drops can be administered at home without medical observation. Allergy drops are typically administered for a minimum of three years. If symptom relief has occurred for all four seasons after the 3 years, then drops can be discontinued.
Pros:
- Convenient – Administered at home (no waiting in the office)
- Noninvasive & pain-free
- 85% effective – in existence for over 40 years
- Safe & All-Natural
- Can help to prevent Asthma
- Relief within 3 months
- Can use HSA or FSA
Cons:
- Not covered by insurance
- Can worsen allergy symptoms at the onset of treatment
Results
Immunotherapy is a treatment that can offer long-lasting relief to those who suffer from allergies. By improving allergy management, it can prevent allergies from worsening, reduce the chances of developing other health issues like asthma and sinusitis, and most importantly, enhance overall well-being. Allergy drops or injections may be a suitable option for you. We recommend consulting with one of our doctors to help you make an informed decision. Both allergy shots and allergy drops have a risk of causing anaphylaxis. Possession of an Epi-Pen is required.
If you suffer from allergies and wish to discuss potential treatment options, please contact our office at (616) 994-2770 to schedule an appointment.