Sublingual Allergy Drops
If you have allergies and want to avoid shots, allergy drops can help.
Overview
Allergy drops are a needle-free way to help you eliminate your allergy/allergies. Instead of injecting with shots, you’ll place allergy drops underneath your tongue daily, wherever you are.
What is Sublingual Immunotherapy?
Sublingual immunotherapy, often referred to as SLIT, involves placing allergen extracts under the tongue to build tolerance and reduce allergy symptoms over time. Unlike traditional allergy shots, SLIT can be self-administered at home, making it a more accessible option for many patients.
Benefits
Sublingual immunotherapy provides several benefits, including:
Convenience: Treatments happen at home without frequent doctor visits.
Safety: Much lower risk of severe allergic reactions compared to injections.
Effectiveness: Proven to reduce allergy symptoms and improve quality of life.
Long-term Relief: Offers prolonged symptom relief even after stopping treatment.
Treatment Details
Sublingual immunotherapy involves placing drops of allergen extracts under the tongue. The treatment starts with a build-up phase, followed by a maintenance phase. Over time, the body becomes less sensitive to the allergens, leading to reduced symptoms.
How Does Sublingual Immunotherapy Work?
SLIT works by gradually introducing small doses of allergens to the immune system through the oral mucosa. This exposure helps the immune system build a tolerance to the allergens, reducing the severity of allergic reactions over time.
Who Can Use Sublingual Immunotherapy?
SLIT is suitable for a wide range of patients, including children and adults. It is particularly effective for treating pollen, mold, dust mites, and animal dander allergies. Patients with severe allergies or those who prefer not to receive injections may benefit most from SLIT.
Recovery & Outlook
Patients undergoing SLIT can expect gradual improvement in their allergy symptoms. The treatment typically takes several months to show significant results, with continuous improvement throughout the treatment.How Long Does Sublingual Immunotherapy Take to Work?
Most patients begin to see improvement in their symptoms within 6 months; however, the full benefits of SLIT may take up to a year or more, depending on the severity of the allergies and the patient's response to the treatment.
How Well Does Sublingual Immunotherapy Work for Allergies?
Clinical studies and patient testimonials have shown that SLIT is highly effective in reducing allergy symptoms. Many patients experience long-term relief and a significant decrease in the need for other allergy medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is sublingual immunotherapy safe?
Yes, SLIT is considered safe, with a much lower risk of severe reactions compared to traditional allergy shots.
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How often do I need to take SLIT?
SLIT is typically administered daily, either as drops or sometimes as dissolvable tablets, depending on the prescribed treatment plan.
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Can children use sublingual immunotherapy?
Yes, SLIT is suitable for children and is effective in reducing pediatric allergy symptoms.
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Do I need to avoid allergens during SLIT treatment?
While SLIT helps build tolerance to allergens, patients should minimize exposure to known allergens whenever possible.
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How long does the treatment last?
SLIT treatment usually continues for 3 to 5 years to achieve long-term benefits. Patients can make informed decisions about their allergy treatment options by understanding sublingual immunotherapy and its benefits and effectiveness. If you think SLIT might be right for you, consult with an ENT allergy specialist to discuss your specific needs and treatment plan.
Patients can make informed decisions about their allergy treatment options by understanding sublingual immunotherapy, its benefits, procedure, and effectiveness. If you think SLIT might be right for you, consult with our ENT specialists to discuss your specific needs and treatment plan.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Davis
Written by
Breathe Clear Institute Editorial Team
Posted on
June 4, 2024