Understanding Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots): A Treatment for Allergen Sensitivity
Immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots, is a long-term treatment option that can decrease sensitivity to allergens. It’s particularly effective for people suffering from various allergic conditions, such as allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, conjunctivitis (eye allergy), or stinging insect allergies.
What is Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy involves administering gradually increasing doses of the specific allergen(s) to which a person is allergic. The incremental increase in allergen exposure allows the immune system to become less sensitive to the substance, potentially leading to reduced or no allergic symptoms when exposed to the allergen in the future.
How Does Immunotherapy Work?
The process starts with a “build-up phase,” where injections containing tiny amounts of the allergen are given one to two times a week. The dose is gradually increased to a “maintenance dose,” which is usually reached in 3 to 6 months. The maintenance phase involves receiving injections of this dose every two to four weeks for several years. Over time, patients may notice a decrease in their allergic symptoms.
Benefits of Immunotherapy
- Long-term Relief: Immunotherapy can modify the natural course of allergic diseases, leading to long-lasting relief.
- Reduction in Medication Use: Many patients find that they can reduce or eliminate the use of allergy medications over time.
- Prevention of New Allergies and Asthma: Studies have shown that immunotherapy can prevent the development of new allergies and, in children, reduce the risk of progressing to asthma.
Who Can Benefit from Immunotherapy?
Immunotherapy is recommended for people who:
- Have severe allergic symptoms not adequately controlled by medications.
- Want to reduce long-term use of allergy medications.
- Have allergic reactions to stinging insects.
Considerations and Risks
While generally safe, immunotherapy carries some risk of allergic reactions to the allergy shots themselves. The most common reactions are local reactions at the injection site. Rarely, systemic reactions, which can be more serious, can occur.