Method of Administration
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Injected into arm using small needle initially 1-3 times/week with frequency being reduced to monthly after “build-up” phase. Administered in physician’s office with a 30-minute post-injection observation period. |
Liquid is placed under tongue three times daily and held there for several minutes, then swallowed. May be administered at home. |
Benefits
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Reduces allergy and asthma symptoms in 85-90% of patients. May prevent development of asthma in some patients. |
Patients with a single allergen benefit. Not as effective in patients allergic to multiple allergens. Only a few studies have compared these two methods. |
FDA Approved?
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Yes, both the allergy mixture and method of administration are FDA approved. |
No, the allergy mixture is the same, but no standard has been set for preparation, concentration, dosing or schedule. Therefore it is considered investigational. |
Insurance Coverage?
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Yes |
No |
Duration of
Treatment
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Patient will receive monthly injections for 3-5 years. |
Patient will administer daily drops for 3-5 years for best results, although research is still needed to prove the best duration and dosing. |
Adverse Reactions
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Local reactions at injection site may occur. Although rare, anaphylaxis can occur. |
Itching of mouth, tongue and ears; swelling of mouth and tongue; and gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may occur. |
Tolerance
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A well-defined, long-term tolerance upon completion of immunotherapy occurs. |
Due to conflicting data, tolerance upon completion is unknown. Loss of tolerance upon completing immunotherapy is common. |
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