Sublingual Immunotherapy

People who suffer from allergies that don’t respond to medical treatment may find relief from immunotherapy, a method of building tolerance to an allergen by introducing it to the body in small doses over a period of time. 

It is usually given orally as sublingual drops (underneath the tongue) or as injections (allergy shots). 

We have an enhanced allergy drop program at Arizona Desert ENT because our patients prefer the convenience of just dropping a few drops under their tongue each day in the morning. It’s safe and convenient. 

Allergy shots work just as well, but they require weekly visits to the physician’s office. Currently, we do not offer allergy shots in the practice. 

Allergy Drops 

People who suffer from allergies that don’t respond to medical treatment may find relief from immunotherapy, a method of building tolerance to an allergen by introducing it to the body in small doses over a period of time. When ingested, this process is known as sublingual immunotherapy or allergy drops. 

Allergy drops are a more effective treatment than over-the-counter pills because they combat the cause of allergies rather than the symptoms.  

How Do Allergy Drops Work? 

Allergy drops are a long-term treatment that decrease symptoms by increasing the body’s immunity to triggers. The patient drips liquid containing allergens under the tongue and holds it there for one to two minutes before swallowing. This is a more convenient option than allergy shots for many patients because allergy drops can be safely administered at home rather than at the doctor’s office. 

The dose varies by patient depending on several factors, including the severity of allergies and sensitivity to allergy drop dosages. Patients generally self-administer treatments between three and seven days per week for an average of three to five years. The goal is to build up the body’s immunity to allergens, so the patient no longer experiences symptoms once the treatment is over. 

Are There Any Risks with Allergy Drops? 

Like all medical procedures, there are possible risks and side effects. However, these are generally mild, ranging from localized itching in the mouth to intestinal discomfort, which often goes away after several weeks. 

What Can I Expect from Allergy Drops? 

Allergy drops are an important new treatment option for patients who continuously refill over-the-counter allergy medications or take daily trips to the doctor’s office for allergy shots. Currently, allergy drops are effective for treating asthma-related to dust mites and allergies to grass, ragweed, pet dander and tree pollen. Researchers hope to expand the treatment’s effectiveness for other allergies such as hay fever, eczema and food sensitivities.