Allergy Shots vs. Drops: Which Immunotherapy is Right for You?

As the seasons shift, the air fills with the pleasant scent of blooming flowers—and a chorus of sneezes and sniffles. Especially this summer, allergies can dampen our perfect beach days. 

When it comes to managing allergies, the power is in your hands. Beyond conventional approaches like antihistamines and lifestyle changes, there are more robust strategies that you can choose to combat allergies. Allergy shots and allergy drops are types of immunotherapy designed to reduce allergic reactions through gradual allergen exposure. Both methods aim to relieve symptoms and improve overall tolerance, but which one should you choose?

Our board-certified allergists from Brazos Valley Allergy & Asthma Clinics will help you make informed decisions for lasting relief against allergies, asthma, and similar conditions. Being the most trusted name in Brazos Valley and College Station, we’re committed to providing safe, efficient, and affordable allergy immunotherapy.

Experience the Best Allergy Relief Today!

What are Allergy Shots?

Allergy shots, or subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), involve injecting small amounts of allergens under the skin. This method helps the immune system build tolerance to allergens over time. Typically, allergy shots are administered in a doctor’s office once or twice a week. After the initial buildup phase, allergists give maintenance shots every two to four weeks. The entire process can take several years to complete.

Benefits

Though the process can be long, the benefits of allergy shots can significantly reduce the need for medications. These include effective long-term relief for many allergies, including pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and bee stings. 

Side Effects

Immunotherapy is safe and effective. However, like many allergy treatments, side effects are possible. Potential adverse effects include reactions at the injection site, such as redness and swelling. Systemic allergic reactions can occur rarely, so shots are given under strict medical supervision. Out of 4,242 injections in this clinic’s patient population, 10 patients experienced systemic reactions that necessitated the administration of epinephrine, resulting in an incidence of 0.24%.

What are Allergy Drops?

Allergy drops, or sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), involve placing allergen extracts under the tongue. This method desensitizes the immune system to allergens. Patients typically administer allergy drops at home and take them daily. The treatment duration can often last several years.

Benefits

Sublingual allergy drops offer the convenience of home administration and are ideal for patients with needle phobia. They are particularly effective for specific allergies, such as grass pollen, ragweed, and dust mites.

Side Effects

Although allergy drops offer numerous benefits, they may also cause side effects such as oral itching and mild swelling in the mouth. Severe allergic reactions are rare but possible, so starting the treatment under medical supervision is advisable.

Comparing Effectiveness

Several studies have compared the effectiveness of allergy shots (SCIT) and allergy drops (SLIT), showing that both methods significantly relieve allergy symptoms and enhance patients’ quality of life.

Patients often prefer allergy shots for severe allergies because they are particularly effective for a broader range of allergies. In fact, SCIT led to remission in 76.6% of patients with allergic rhinitis in an average of 4.9 years. Meanwhile, allergy drops are highly effective for specific allergens like ragweed and dust mites. 

Convenience and Lifestyle Compatibility

When considering convenience, allergy shots and drops differ significantly. Allergy shots require routine visits to an allergist, especially during the initial phase of treatment. This can be time-consuming and must fit with everyone’s schedule. In contrast, allergy drops can be taken at home, offering greater flexibility and ease.

Another critical factor is the time commitment. Allergy shots require frequent visits initially, which can be a burden for some patients. On the other hand, allergy drops are taken daily at home, making them less disruptive to daily routines. While medical supervision is more critical for shots, drops require fewer office visits after the initial prescription.

Cost Considerations

The cost of allergy immunotherapy can vary widely. Allergy shots typically involve costs for the injections, office visits, and potential travel expenses for frequent visits. While insurance coverage for allergy shots is generally good, out-of-pocket expenses can increase, especially if treating multiple allergens.

Meanwhile, allergy drops may have a higher initial cost for the extract, but the overall expense might be lower due to fewer office visits. Insurance coverage for allergy drops is less common in the United States, which can result in higher out-of-pocket costs. Consider the long-term financial implications, as both treatments typically span several years.

Choosing Your Allergy Relief

When it comes to effective allergy management, choosing between allergy shots and drops is critical. A family history of allergies can influence this decision, increasing the likelihood of developing allergies and potentially guiding the choice of allergy shots as a treatment option. It’s important to understand the distinct characteristics of each treatment option, as they are tailored to different needs and conditions. 

Let’s recap the key points we’ve covered to help you determine which option best suits your needs.

Consider Allergen Immunotherapy 

Both allergy shots and drops offer practical solutions for managing allergies, but they have distinct advantages and considerations, including: 

• Effectiveness
• Lifestyle compatibility
• Cost considerations
• Benefits 
• Side effects

Finding long-term relief from allergy symptoms is a serious matter. Ultimately, consulting with an allergist is crucial for determining the adequate treatment option based on individual needs and lifestyle.

Achieve Lasting Relief Against Allergies!

To find long-term relief and freedom from allergy symptoms, we encourage you to speak with our allergy experts today! 

Our board-certified allergist in College Station and the Brazos Valley, Dr. Paul Jantzi, and his team use evidence-based methods to treat and manage allergies and asthma. Allergy immunotherapy is one of Brazos Valley Allergy & Asthma Clinics’ expertise, enabling patients to overcome allergies with lasting effects. 

Wave Goodbye to Allergies Today!