“How does allergy immunotherapy work?”

Allergen immunotherapy is a targeted and very successful treatment for allergies- it is a form of desensitization. There are several different types- oral, subcutaneous, epicutaneous. Each approach has its own risks, benefits. I would suggest you consult with a board certified allergist who can discuss all available options with you and help guide your choice.

Allergy immunotherapy has been perfected over the years. Allergy sensitivity can be determined by specific reactivity of the allergy antibody to pollens, molds, and certain foods. For those people who have allergic rhinitis (hayfever) and those who have allergic asthma, immunotherapy is the closest treatment to a cure that we have. Relief of symptoms can improve by 80%. The shots build a blocking antibody which interferes with the specific allergic reaction and also trigger memory cells in the beginning. The process is lengthy with injections being given once or twice weekly for the first 6 months and then proceeding to every 2 weeks and, for many, eventually monthly intervals.

Respectfully submitted,

Margaret L. Soderberg, M.D., FACAAIBoard Certified