Allergy shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy, reduce sensitivity to specific substances that trigger allergic reactions. This treatment aims to modify the immune system’s response over time, helping the body build tolerance to allergens. By gradually exposing the immune system to increasing amounts of allergens, the therapy helps diminish symptoms and can lead to lasting relief. This approach targets the underlying cause of allergies rather than simply managing symptoms.
The Allergy Shot Treatment Journey
The process of receiving allergy shots involves two distinct phases: the build-up phase and the maintenance phase. During the build-up phase, individuals receive injections with gradually increasing concentrations of allergens. These initial shots are usually administered frequently, often one to three times per week, and this phase generally lasts three to six months. This phase allows the immune system to adapt to allergens without triggering a significant reaction.
Once the maximum tolerated dose, known as the maintenance dose, is reached, treatment transitions to the maintenance phase. In this phase, injections become less frequent, typically every two to four weeks. The maintenance phase is important for solidifying immune system tolerance and usually continues for three to five years. While some individuals may notice symptom improvement during build-up, many experience full benefits after several months into maintenance.
How Long the Benefits Persist
Allergy shot benefits often extend beyond the active treatment period, providing prolonged relief after injections stop. Many individuals experience significant improvement in their allergy symptoms for several years following treatment completion. While not a permanent cure for everyone, this therapy can lead to long-term remission of allergy symptoms. For many patients, positive effects can last three to five years after finishing shots.
Some reports indicate benefits may persist even longer, potentially seven to ten years or more, particularly when the full recommended treatment protocol is completed. This lasting effect distinguishes immunotherapy from daily allergy medications, which only provide relief while taken. The goal is to achieve substantial symptom reduction, often to the point where medication is no longer needed or required much less frequently.
Factors Affecting Treatment Duration and Outcome
Several factors influence allergy shot treatment duration and benefit longevity. The type and number of allergens treated play a role; for example, shots are effective for airborne allergens like pollens, molds, dust mites, and insect stings, but not food allergies. Individual patient response to therapy is also a significant determinant, as immune systems vary in how they adapt to allergen exposure.
Consistent adherence to the treatment schedule, including regular attendance for injections and completing both build-up and maintenance phases, is important for optimal outcomes. Stopping treatment early may lead to symptoms returning sooner. Initial allergy severity and overall immune system health also affect how quickly and effectively treatment works. Additionally, factors like correct allergen dosage and continued exposure to high environmental allergen levels can impact success.
Sustaining Relief
Even after completing allergy shots and experiencing sustained relief, symptoms may gradually return. If initial treatment benefits wane, re-evaluation by an allergist is important. An allergist can assess current allergies and determine the best course of action.
This re-evaluation might involve resuming maintenance injections or considering other management strategies. For some, occasional booster shots can help maintain immune system tolerance. Other allergy management approaches may also be beneficial if initial immunotherapy no longer provides sufficient relief. Long-term allergy management often involves ongoing communication with a healthcare provider for continued symptom control.