Allergy Immunotherapy

Allergy immunotherapy stops your immune system from overreacting to common allergens. Through a series of targeted allergy shots or tablets, your body builds tolerance and reduces symptoms over time. This treatment leads to long-term relief, not just temporary management. Schedule an appointment with an immunologist and start your path to lasting results.

Are Allergy Shots Effective?

Allergy shots, or allergy immunotherapy, are one of the most effective methods for dealing with allergies. Allergies happen when the immune system reacts to something harmless, like pollen or dust, as if it were a threat; with immunotherapy (shots or tablets) and a little patience, long-term relief is in reach.

How Do Allergy Shots Work?

Allergy shots work much like a vaccine. Your body responds to injected amounts of a particular allergen given in increasing doses, eventually developing a resistance and tolerance to it. Allergy shots can lead to decreased, minimal, or no allergy symptoms.

There are usually two phases to the process:

Build-up often ranges from three to six months and involves receiving injections with increasing amounts of the allergens.
The maintenance phase begins when the most effective dose is reached. This dose is different for each person, depending on how allergic you are and your response to the build-up injections.

Most patients see noticeable improvement within the first year of treatment. Note that cortisone-type shots that temporarily reduce allergy symptoms are NOT allergy immunotherapy shots.

Are Allergy Shots Safe?

Yes, allergy shots are safe when given under medical supervision. Most side effects are mild, like redness or swelling at the injection site. Serious reactions are rare and usually happen shortly after the shot, which is why patients are monitored for a short time after each dose.

Who Can Be Treated with Allergy Immunotherapy?

Allergy immunotherapy is a long-term treatment that can significantly reduce symptoms for people with certain types of allergies. It’s not right for everyone, but it can be highly effective when used in the right situations.

Candidates for allergy shots include:

Individuals with allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
People with allergic asthma
Those with allergic conjunctivitis (eye allergies)
Anyone with a stinging insect allergy
Children aged 5 and older, who often tolerate treatment well and may gain long-term protection
Pregnant patients who began treatment before pregnancy, under continued supervision
Patients without medical conditions or medications that could increase the risk of adverse reactions

Allergy shots are not used to treat food allergies. Your allergist will evaluate your overall health, allergy history, and medications to determine if this treatment is appropriate for you.

Are Allergy Shots Worth It?

For people with ongoing allergy symptoms, allergy shots are often worth it. They reduce sensitivity to allergens over time and can lead to fewer symptoms, less need for medication, and long-term relief.