Allergy Shots Near Me

Allergen immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots, is a highly effective treatment for individuals suffering from allergic rhinitis (hay fever, seasonal allergies), allergic asthma, and insect sting allergies.

How Allergy Shots Work: 

Allergy shots work by gradually exposing the immune system to small amounts of an allergen over time, allowing the body to build tolerance to it. They are customized to target specific allergens causing an individual's symptoms. Typically this involves receiving injections of the allergen extract once or twice per week for several months. This is followed by maintenance injections every month for up to 3-5 years.

Pros/Cons of Allergy Shots: 

Allergy Shots Treatment: 

Initial evaluation: Before starting allergy shots, a comprehensive allergy evaluation will be conducted by one of North Texas Allergy and Asthma Center’s board-certified allergists to identify specific allergens and determine the most appropriate treatment plan. Allergy testing in Denton can include skin prick testing, deeper intradermal testing, and/or blood allergy testing.

Read more about allergy testing offered at North Texas Allergy and Asthma Center.

Phases of Allergy shots: The treatment process consists of two main phases: the build-up phase and the maintenance phase.

1. Build-up Phase: During the build-up phase, patients receive gradually increasing doses of allergens to which they are allergic to build tolerance. This typically involves receiving injections 1-2 times per week under the supervision of our board-certified allergists in Denton. The goal of the buildup phase, which typically lasts between 5-9 months, is to reach a maintenance dose. This is the maximum amount of allergen that can be safely administered to the patient to reduce symptoms without causing a severe allergic reaction.

There are 3 equally effective methods we offer patients looking to start allergen immunotherapy:

1. Standard immunotherapy: Weekly allergy immunizations are given for up to 9 months until reaching the highest tolerated effective dose (the maintenance phase).
2. Cluster immunotherapy: “Cluster” is an accelerated form of immunotherapy in which sets of injections are given for the first 4 weekly visits then followed by weekly injections to reach the maintenance phase in about 5 months.
3. Rush Immunotherapy: “Rush” is the most rapid desensitization available. Multiple injections are given over several hours in one day followed by weekly injections to reach the maintenance phase in about 5 months.

2. Maintenance Phase: Once the target dose of allergen extract is reached during the build-up phase, patients enter the maintenance phase. During this phase, patients continue to receive regular allergy immunization at a consistent dose, typically every 4 weeks for at least 3-5 years. The goal of the maintenance phase is to maintain the desensitization achieved during the build-up phase.

Common Immunotherapy Questions: 

Are there risks with immunotherapy treatment? 

The most common type of reaction to allergy shots is a local reaction with redness and swelling at the injection site. The risk of a serious allergic reaction is rare but may include life-threatening anaphylaxis. Serious allergic reactions normally occur within the first 20 minutes after receiving the injection. As a result, patients are required to be observed in our office for 20 minutes after each injection. We also require patients to carry an auto-injectable epinephrine pen to and from their allergy shot appointments.

How can I be sure I am being treated for the right allergy? 

At North Texas Allergy and Asthma Center, allergy shots are completely individualized based on clinical history, allergen exposure, and allergy test results. A unique, custom-made treatment mixture is then created for each patient by one of our board-certified allergists with the assistance of our trained staff. Allergy immunization should be prescribed by a board-certified allergist with specific training in formulating these specialized shots.

How long does it take for allergy shots to work? 

The benefits of immunotherapy can begin as soon as 3-4 months and can take as long as 12 months on the maintenance dose. Improvement with immunotherapy may be progressive throughout the immunotherapy treatment period. The effectiveness of immunotherapy is related to the strength of allergy shots and the length of treatment.

Can I take my allergy immunizations at home? 

Many at-home allergy shot treatments are dosed to be weaker and tend to be less effective for patients. Board-certified allergists, following national guidelines for allergy shots, do not allow patients to receive shots at home because of the risk of possible severe allergic reaction after receiving an allergy shot. Our staff is specially trained to recognize any potential risks and adverse reactions to shots, and we always recommend treating symptoms early so that the problems can be avoided.

What are alternatives to allergy shots? 

Allergy drops: Sublingual Immunotherapy is often referred to as allergy drops.  Allergy drops work in a similar way to allergy shots by decreasing sensitivity to allergens through exposure to increasing amounts of the agents a person is allergic to. Allergy drops can be done at home and are given sublingually (under the tongue) instead of subcutaneously (under the skin). Currently, allergy drops are NOT approved by the FDA, therefore, insurance will not cover allergy drops and patients will be responsible for the full cost.

Allergy tablets: The FDA has now approved three oral immunotherapy tablets to treat allergies to different grasses, ragweed, and dust mites. Just as with allergy shots or drops, over time, the tablets will increase your tolerance to the pollen and reduce your symptoms. Treatment with allergy tablets depends on the allergic sensitivities and age of the patient.

Get Started with Allergen Immunotherapy: 

A board-certified allergist at North Texas Allergy and Asthma center can help determine if allergy shots are a good treatment option for you. For an appointment with one of our board-certified pediatric and adult allergy specialists please call us at 940-382-4142 or make your appointment online.