As summer heats up and allergy symptoms intensify, let’s explore a topic that’s on many of our patients’ minds: the difference between allergy shots and allergy drops. Whether you’re considering starting immunotherapy or just curious about the options, we’re here to help you better understand these two effective treatments.
What are allergy shots and drops?
Both allergy shots and allergy drops are forms of immunotherapy, which is a treatment designed to reduce your sensitivity to allergens over time. They work by gradually exposing your immune system to small, controlled amounts of the allergens that trigger your specific symptoms. This helps your body build up a tolerance, and over time, reduces the severity and frequency of your allergic reactions.
Allergy Shots
Here’s what you need to know about them:
- Administration: Allergy shots are usually given in the upper arm. These injections are administered in our clinic by a trained healthcare professional.
- Frequency: At the beginning of the treatment, you’ll need to visit one of our 13 clinics once or twice a week for the shots. As your treatment progresses, you’ll come in for shots less and less. Eventually, most patients only need to come in once every four to six weeks.
- Effectiveness: Allergy shots are highly effective for a wide range of allergens, including pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites and even insect stings. They are especially beneficial for patients with severe allergies or those who haven’t had success with other treatments.
- Commitment: The treatment period typically spans three to five years.
Allergy Drops
Here’s how they work:
- Administration: Allergy drops are placed under your tongue, where they are absorbed into your bloodstream. This method allows you to take your treatment at home, making it a bit more convenient than allergy shots.
- Frequency: Drops are usually taken daily.
- Effectiveness: Like shots, allergy drops can be effective for many types of allergens. However, they are particularly popular for treating environmental allergies like pollen and dust mites.
- Commitment: The treatment duration for allergy drops is similar to that of shots, typically lasting three to five years.
Which one is right for you?
Choosing between allergy shots and drops depends on several factors, including your lifestyle, the severity of your allergies and personal preferences. Your doctor can help you make the right choice.
Consider these things when speaking with your provider:
- Convenience: If frequent clinic visits are challenging for you, allergy drops might be a better fit.
- Severity of Allergies: For severe allergies, especially those related to insect stings, allergy shots might offer a more robust solution.
- Personal Preference: Some people prefer the traditional, in-clinic approach of shots, feeling reassured by the regular monitoring by healthcare professionals. Others appreciate the flexibility and convenience of drops, which can be taken at home.
- Cost: It’s also important to consider your insurance coverage. While both treatments can be effective, your insurance plan may only cover immunotherapy injections.
Ready to learn more? Schedule a consultation at one of the 13 Baz Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center locations around the Central Valley. We’re looking forward to getting your breathing right and seeing more clearly!
