Allergy Shots, Sublingual, and Oral Therapies
Immunotherapy is one approach to treatingallergies.
This article discusses different types ofimmunotherapy, including allergy shots, sublingual immunotherapy, and oral immunotherapy.
It also discusses potential benefits and side effects, treatment schedules, and insurance coverage.
Emilija Manevska / Getty Images
Emilija Manevska / Getty Images
How Does Immunotherapy for Allergies Work?
All types of immunotherapy for allergies work on the same principle.
Over time, you are exposed to more significant amounts of an allergen.
A provider administers an injection beneath your skin.
Gradually, the medical provider increases the concentration of the allergen over time.
Sublingual Immunotherapy
Tablet sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is another immunotherapy option.
You place a tablet under your tongue for several minutes until it dissolves.
So if you are allergic to other substances, it is not a good option.
Allergy drops are another option in this category.
Allergy drops are not FDA-approved in the United States but are sometimes used off-label.
However, its unclear if sublingual therapy is as effective as allergy shots.
Food Allergy Immunotherapy
Oral immunotherapy to treat food allergies is the least established form of immunotherapy.
It addresses food allergy symptoms, not allergies from airborne allergens that trigger allergic asthma or rhinitis.
The only food allergy immunotherapy specifically approved by the FDA isPalforzia, a formulation of peanut powder.
Whos Immunotherapy Right For?
Potential Benefits of Immunotherapy
You may want to consider immunotherapy if your allergies are moderate to severe.
People Who May Need to Avoid Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy isnt the right choice for everyone.
How Often Do You Get Immunotherapy Treatments?
People taking oral therapy will take it daily at first, followed by less frequent dosing.
The maintenance phase may last for years or continue indefinitely.
How Soon Do You See Results?
Its important to be patient with immunotherapy.
Some people start to see results in the initial buildup phase.
For others, it might take a year or even longer to notice symptom improvement.
Side Effects of Immunotherapy
Potential side effects of immunotherapy vary based on the jot down you receive.
However, it may cause issues such as itching or burning of the mouth.
From there, many people with allergic asthma can safely respond to immunotherapy.
Does Insurance Cover Immunotherapy for Allergies?
Many insurance plans cover allergy shots but usually require a co-pay.
These costs can add up because allergy shots are given over a long period.
Some insurance plans cover sublingual tablet immunotherapy, but some do not.
Also, because allergy drops are not FDA-approved, they are not covered by insurance.
With the possible exception of oral peanut immunotherapy, insurance is less likely to cover oral immunotherapy approaches.
you might eat and drink normally before and after your treatment.
it’s possible for you to also administer your own epinephrine via anEpiPenat any signs of a severe reaction.
Most people get some symptom relief, but treatment takes a few years.
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