How does sublingual immunotherapy work

Then, a custom-mixed vial of drops is prepared for the patient. The patient takes drops under the tongue daily. During the first four months, called the escalation phase, the dosage is gradually increased. After that, in the maintenance phase, the patient takes the same dose of drops each day. It is very safe, for both adults and children. The World Health Organization WHO has endorsed sublingual immunotherapy as a viable alternative to injection immunotherapy.

We recommend that patients keep using the drops for three to five years so that the body will build up a lasting immunity. Users place the tablet under their tongue and let it dissolve. This is usually done on a daily basis and results take anywhere from three to five years. The tablet is taken at home, year-round to help reduce nose and eye symptoms, such as:. If you tolerate your first dose, you can take the rest of your doses at home.

The tablet is taken for 12 weeks before the grass pollen season and throughout the pollen season; it may also be taken daily for three years to provide a sustained effect for a fourth year in which you do not have to take GRASTEK.

After taking the first dose, you will be observed for at least 30 minutes for symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. These allergens are picked up by the immune system and processed. In the course of processing the antigens, the patient develops a tolerance to those substances that are in the serum. The only way to obtain proper information in order to prepare your serum is to conduct an allergy test. You need to be seen for a regular appointment with the doctor prior to allergy testing.

Can SLIT be given to children? SLIT is ideal for children. There are no needles and the drops actually taste pretty good! Is it covered by insurance? At this time, SLIT is not covered by insurance. However, since it is much easier to administer and is generally done at home, SLIT is often cheaper for patients because they don't have to pay co-pays.

Also you don't have to spend time and money coming to the office every week. Is SLIT as good as shots?