Allergen Immunotherapy: How Allergy Shots, Tablets and Drops Work
Understanding your options for allergy immunotherapy
Allergen immunotherapy is a treatment that aims to make the immune system less sensitive to specific allergens. It may be an option for people with allergies to airborne allergens, such as pollen, house dust mites, or other triggers, particularly when symptoms remain troublesome despite standard allergy treatments.
In this video, Mrs. Ellen Bonne from Belgium explains the different allergen immunotherapy options available and what patients can expect throughout their treatment journey.
In this video, you’ll learn:
- What allergen immunotherapy is and how it works
- How allergy injections (allergy shots) are administered
- How allergy tablets work
- How allergy drops are taken under the tongue
- How the different treatment options compare
- What to expect during the treatment process
- Practical tips to help you feel more confident during your allergy treatment journey
Watch the video below to learn how the different forms of allergen immunotherapy work and what you can expect from treatment.
What is allergen immunotherapy?
Allergen immunotherapy works by exposing the immune system to controlled amounts of a specific allergen over time. The aim is to gradually reduce the body's sensitivity to that allergen and improve allergy symptoms.
Unlike medicines that simply relieve symptoms, allergen immunotherapy is intended to modify the way the immune system responds to the allergen.
What treatment options are available?
Depending on the allergen, your symptoms, and your individual circumstances, allergen immunotherapy may be administered in different ways.
- Allergy injections: The allergen is administered by injection, usually at a healthcare facility under medical supervision.
- Allergy tablets: Some allergens can be treated using tablets that are placed in the mouth and allowed to dissolve, following the prescribed instructions.
- Allergy drops: Some forms of allergen immunotherapy are administered as drops under the tongue.
The appropriate treatment depends on the specific allergy and the treatment options available in your region. Your healthcare professional can discuss which approach may be suitable for you.
Starting your allergy treatment journey
Allergen immunotherapy usually involves treatment over an extended period, so understanding what to expect can help you feel prepared and confident. If you are considering allergen immunotherapy, speak with an allergy specialist or other qualified healthcare professional. They can assess your allergies, discuss the potential benefits and risks, and determine whether immunotherapy is appropriate for you.
Please note: This video is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Always follow the treatment instructions provided by your healthcare team.
