Sublingual Immunotherapy

What is sublingual immunotherapy?

Sublingual Immunotherapy helps you build up an immunity to your allergies. Unlike subcutaneous (under the skin) immunotherapy, which requires frequent injections, you build up your immunity through a series of tablets or liquid drops that are dissolved under the tongue.

How does sublingual immunotherapy work?

Sublingual immunotherapy works by exposing you for an extended period of time to small doses of the things that trigger your allergies. Sublingual immunotherapy helps decrease your body’s sensitivity to these allergens and builds up long-term immunity.

Your doctor first does allergy testing. Not all allergies can be treated with sublingual immunotherapy, so a skin or blood test helps determine your eligibility. 

Once your doctor has successfully performed your allergy test, you’ll receive your allergy drops either in tablet or liquid form. The liquid drops are custom-mixed to suit the specific needs of each patient.

What are the phases of sublingual immunotherapy?

Sublingual immunotherapy happens in two phases. The first phase is the build-up phase, typically consisting of the first four months of treatment. 

During this time, patients see their dosage gradually increase. After the right dosage is reached, the maintenance phase begins, during which patients take the same dose every day.

For the best results, experts recommend that you continue sublingual immunotherapy for at least three years. 

After the maintenance phase, you’ll experience long-term relief from your allergy symptoms without the need for drops or tablets. The process is repeated once allergy symptoms begin to return.

What are the benefits of sublingual immunotherapy?

The reasons patients choose sublingual immunotherapy include:

• Fewer doctor visits
• No injections
• At-home treatment
• Low risk
• Appropriate for treating children

With sublingual immunotherapy, you get the benefit of long-term allergy relief without the inconvenience of weekly, biweekly, or monthly injections.

Your doctor can help you determine if sublingual immunotherapy is an effective treatment of your allergies. To speak with an experienced ENT specialist, book an appointment by calling the office nearest you or going online.