Allergy shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy, offer a method for managing severe allergic reactions by gradually desensitizing the immune system to specific allergens. This treatment involves introducing small, increasing doses of the substances that trigger allergic responses. While traditionally administered in a clinical setting, home administration can be an option for some individuals after their healthcare provider has determined it is safe and provided comprehensive training and supervision. This article outlines the process of self-administering allergy shots, emphasizing that this guidance supplements, but does not replace, professional medical instruction and oversight.
Understanding Allergy Shots
Allergy shots contain minute quantities of allergens, which are substances that typically cause an immune system overreaction. These injections retrain the body’s immune response from inflammation to tolerance. By gradually increasing the allergen amount, the immune system becomes less reactive, reducing or eliminating allergy symptoms. This process, known as desensitization, involves shifting antibody production from IgE (which triggers allergic reactions) to IgG (which blocks allergens from causing a response).
Home administration offers convenience after completing the initial supervised buildup phase in a clinic. The buildup phase, lasting 3 to 10 months, involves weekly or bi-weekly doses that gradually increase in concentration. The maintenance phase typically involves injections every 2 to 4 weeks for 3 to 5 years to ensure lasting relief.
Preparing for Administration
Meticulous preparation is essential for safety and effectiveness. Begin by gathering all necessary supplies: the specific allergy serum vials, the correct syringes and needles (typically a 1 mL syringe with a 25-28 gauge, 1/2 or 5/8 inch needle for subcutaneous injection), alcohol wipes, and a designated sharps disposal container. An emergency epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) must also be readily available.
The allergy serum must be stored properly, typically refrigerated between 2°C and 8°C (36°F and 46°F), to maintain its potency. Before use, carefully inspect the vial for clarity, ensuring no particles, cloudiness, or discoloration, and verify the expiration date. Cross-reference the prescribed dose with the patient’s record to ensure accuracy. Select an appropriate injection site, usually the fatty tissue on the upper arm or outer mid-thigh, and clean it thoroughly with an alcohol wipe, allowing it to air dry completely.
Administering the Injection
The injection process requires precision to ensure the medication is delivered correctly and safely. First, draw the prescribed dose from the vial by pulling air into the syringe equal to the amount of medication to be withdrawn. Insert the needle into the vial’s rubber stopper, invert the vial, and inject the air to prevent a vacuum from forming. Keep the needle tip submerged in the liquid and slowly pull back the plunger to draw the medication into the syringe, ensuring no large air bubbles remain. If air bubbles are present, gently tap the syringe to move them to the top and push them back into the vial.
Once the syringe contains the correct, air-free dose, select the injection site on the upper arm or thigh. Pinch up skin and fatty tissue, then insert the needle at a 45-to-90-degree angle into the subcutaneous layer. Slowly inject the medication, then steadily withdraw the needle. Avoid massaging the injection site after removal.
Post-Injection Care and Safety
Immediate post-injection care involves applying gentle pressure to the injection site, avoiding vigorous rubbing, to prevent bruising or irritation. After the injection, observe the patient for 20 to 30 minutes to monitor for any adverse reactions. Common local reactions include redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site, which usually resolve within a few hours. These localized responses can be managed with a cold pack or an oral antihistamine if bothersome.
Systemic reactions, though less common, can be more serious and may include hives, sneezing, nasal congestion, or difficulty breathing. Anaphylaxis, a rare but severe reaction, is characterized by symptoms like throat swelling, wheezing, chest tightness, dizziness, or a significant drop in blood pressure. In such cases, immediately use a prescribed epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) and call emergency services. All used needles and syringes must be disposed of safely in a puncture-resistant sharps container.
Important Considerations
Maintaining consistent communication with the prescribing physician is paramount throughout the course of allergy immunotherapy. Never deviate from the prescribed dose or schedule, as this can impact the effectiveness of the treatment and potentially increase the risk of reactions. If a dose is missed, or if the patient is unwell with symptoms such as a fever, active rash, or asthma flare-up on the day of the shot, contact the healthcare provider for guidance, as the injection may need to be skipped or the dose adjusted.
This information serves as a guide for home administration of allergy shots. It does not replace the comprehensive training and direct guidance that must be provided by a qualified healthcare professional. Regular follow-up appointments with an allergist are necessary to monitor progress, adjust doses as needed, and address any concerns that may arise during treatment.