What is allergy immunotherapy?
Allergy immunotherapy works by treating the causes of allergies by administering small doses of the substances to which the affected person is allergic, thereby increasing their immunity or tolerance to the triggers and reducing symptoms. Allergy immunotherapy is given either under the tongue in the form of drops or as injections under the skin.
How does the process work?
The first step is to confirm the patient’s allergies through allergy testing. Then, a vial containing customized drops is prepared for the patient to take as sublingual drops daily.
What are the benefits of using allergy drops?
There are several benefits of allergy drops, including the following:
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The majority of patients treated with allergy drops need to visit the clinic only a few times in the first year, and once every 6-12 months thereafter, until there is no longer any need for such visits.
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You can take allergy drops at home or anywhere you need them.
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Patients typically report needing fewer clinic or hospital visits and wasting less time from work or school after consistently taking the drops.
What will happen if I have an allergic reaction?
If at any time you experience swelling, blisters, severe itching, or a rash, please notify your doctor.
How are the drops taken?
After removing the bottle cap, place the dropper under the tongue, behind the lower front teeth, and squeeze the dropper appropriately. The number of drops is 1, 2, or 3 drops (depending on the dose). Hold the drops under the tongue for at least 30 seconds, then swallow the drops.
How long can I expect the effects of allergy drops to last?
The key to ensuring results is consistency, which is an additional benefit of allergy drops. Studies indicate that patients taking allergy drops tend to adhere to treatment 90% of the time, a much higher rate than with other treatment methods. The patient will generally continue treatment for three to five years, depending on the severity of the allergy-related problems.
