ALLERGY DROPS – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are allergy treatment options?
The best therapy for your allergies is avoidance of substances to which you are allergic. Medications can help in control of symptoms; Immunotherapy is a safe and effective alternative and works by increasing your allergy tolerance. You have the option of traditional subcutaneous immunotherapy (allergy shots) or sublingual immunotherapy (allergy drops).
What are allergy drops?
Allergy drops are allergens administered as a drop under your tongue instead of an injection. The drops are prepared individually for you based on your own allergies. The drops may include pollen, dust mite, animal dander and/or other allergens. They are not yet available for treatment of insect venom, or bee sting allergy. Traditional allergy injections are administered weekly to monthly at your doctor’s office, while allergy drops are administered daily at home. Studies have shown that allergy drops provide approximately 60% improvement of symptoms, whereas allergy injections have a reported 80% improvement in symptoms. Either treatment is more effective than medications alone, which only offer about a 40% short-term improvement.
What are the benefits of allergy drops?
Allergy drops allow the convenience of fewer office visits and the benefit of no needles, which is especially appealing for small children. There is also a reduced risk of severe reaction with allergy drops.
How much do allergy drops cost?
Treatment is recommended for a period of 3-5 years. Because insurance companies do not currently offer reimbursement for this form of therapy, payment is required before we prepare your personalized prescription. The initial month of treatment will cost
- $450 for 3 month.
- $150 per month
How does the process work?
Allergy testing is performed to determine what you are allergic to. Based on those results a bottle is custom made for you. Your program will start with a “build-up” phase during which your body begins to develop tolerance to the allergens. After you have reached your “maintenance” phase, you will receive the same dose every day. We recommend using your drops in the morning, before breakfast and waiting 5 minutes before eating.
How long do I need to continue this treatment?
Like allergy injections, allergy drops are not a “quick-fix”. You should begin to notice some benefit after several weeks and we recommend a 3–5-year program to allow your body to develop lasting immunity.
What side effects should I look for?
The most common side effect is local itching in the mouth, but some people may experience stomach upset. The risk of severe side effects is very low.
Does my extract need to be refrigerated?
Unlike traditional allergy injection extract, allergy drops do not require refrigeration. The concentration of protein is higher in allergy drops and the extract contains a glycerin preservative, however, temperature extremes should be avoided.
When should allergy drops not be used?
We do not recommend using allergy drops if you have a sore in your mouth, as this may increase chances of an allergic reaction. If you experience a tooth loss, wait one week before restarting drops. Reduce the possibility of abrasions in the mouth by avoiding crunchy foods for a period after administering your allergy drops. Do not use your allergy drops if you are experiencing an active asthma flare, defined as cough, wheeze or chest tightness. You may resume therapy when your asthma is well controlled, and you are symptom free. Your dose will remain unchanged for up to one week of missed doses. Please call our office for dosing advice if you miss more than one week.
What if I am currently receiving allergy injections?
Switching to allergy drops is an option; however, this is a decision that should be made between you and your provider. If interested, please schedule an appointment to discuss treatment options.
What are allergy treatment options?
The best therapy for your allergies is avoidance of substances to which you are allergic. Medications can help in control of symptoms; Immunotherapy is a safe and effective alternative and works by increasing your allergy tolerance. You have the option of traditional subcutaneous immunotherapy (allergy shots) or sublingual immunotherapy (allergy drops).
