Allergy drops, formally known as sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), present an alternative to traditional allergy shots. This treatment approach aims to address the underlying cause of allergic reactions rather than merely alleviating symptoms.
Understanding Allergy Drops
Allergy drops are a form of immunotherapy designed to gradually reduce the body’s sensitivity to specific allergens. This treatment involves placing small, precise doses of allergen extracts under the tongue. The mucous membranes in the mouth absorb these allergens, introducing them into the bloodstream. This method works by progressively desensitizing the immune system, teaching it to tolerate substances that once triggered an allergic response.
The fundamental principle behind allergy drops is to retrain the immune system. Instead of reacting with symptoms like sneezing or itching, the immune system learns to calm its response over time. Unlike conventional allergy medications that only treat symptoms, immunotherapy targets the root cause of the allergy.
Conditions Addressed by Allergy Drops
Allergy drops are typically used to address a range of common allergic conditions, primarily those caused by airborne allergens. This includes seasonal allergies, often triggered by pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. Perennial allergies, which persist year-round, are also commonly treated with allergy drops. These can include sensitivities to indoor allergens such as dust mites, pet dander, and mold spores.
The treatment focuses on the specific allergens identified through allergy testing, helping to build tolerance to these triggers. While most commonly associated with allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and allergic conjunctivitis (itchy, watery eyes), SLIT can also be part of a treatment plan for some individuals with allergic asthma.
Anticipated Results of Treatment
Individuals undergoing allergy drop treatment can expect a gradual reduction in their allergic symptoms. Over time, symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes often become less severe and less frequent. This improvement typically leads to a decreased reliance on daily allergy medications, such as antihistamines and nasal sprays. For many, this translates to an improved quality of life, allowing them to engage in activities previously limited by their allergies.
While some patients may notice initial improvements within a few months, significant relief usually becomes apparent after six to twelve months of consistent use. The full benefits of allergy drops often manifest after a year or more of treatment. A key aspect of this therapy is its potential for long-term relief, with studies indicating that benefits can persist for several years even after the treatment course is completed. This sustained tolerance suggests a lasting change in the immune system’s response to allergens.
Determining Suitability for Allergy Drops
Allergy drops may be a suitable treatment option for individuals seeking a convenient at-home therapy for their allergies. They are often chosen by those who prefer to avoid injections, making them particularly appealing for needle-averse individuals and children. The ability to self-administer the drops at home offers flexibility, benefiting people with busy schedules or those who travel frequently. Candidates typically have allergies confirmed by skin or blood tests.
While allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy) require regular clinic visits for injections, allergy drops offer the convenience of daily home use. It is important to note that while the allergen extracts used in drops are the same as those in shots, the FDA has approved specific SLIT tablets for a limited number of allergens, such as certain grass pollens, ragweed, and dust mites. Custom-blended allergy drops, however, are often used off-label. Cost considerations can also differ, as insurance coverage for off-label allergy drops may be less common than for FDA-approved allergy shot treatments.
The Treatment Journey
The administration of allergy drops is a straightforward daily routine. Patients typically place the prescribed number of drops under the tongue, holding them there for one to two minutes before swallowing. For optimal absorption, it is generally recommended to avoid eating or drinking for about 15 minutes before and after taking the drops. Some regimens might involve taking drops once daily, while others could suggest multiple doses throughout the day.
Consistency is important for the success of the treatment, and patients are advised to take the drops around the same time each day. The overall duration of allergy drop treatment typically spans three to five years to achieve sustained benefits. Common side effects are usually mild and tend to occur early in the treatment course, often subsiding as the body adjusts. These can include itching or tingling in the mouth, lips, or throat, or mild stomach upset. Initial consultations with a healthcare provider are necessary to determine the appropriate dosage, with periodic follow-up appointments to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed.