Allergy Immunotherapy

WHAT IS AN ALLERGY SHOT?

Allergy shots are a series of injections containing small amounts of the substance you are allergic to. Over time they make your body less sensitive to the specific allergens that trigger an allergic response.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Allergy shots work like a vaccine. Your body responds to injected amounts of a particular allergen, given in gradually increasing doses, by developing immunity or tolerance to the allergen.

BUILD-UP PHASE

This involves receiving injections with increasing amounts of the allergens about one to two times per week. The length of this phase depends upon how often the injections are received, but generally ranges from three to six months.

MAINTENANCE

This begins once the effective dose is reached. The effective maintenance dose depends on your level of allergen sensitivity and your response to the build-up phase. During the maintenance phase, there will be longer periods of time between treatments, ranging from two to four weeks.

HOW EFFECTIVE IT IS?

Allergy shots have shown to decrease symptoms of many allergies. The effectiveness of allergy shots appears to be related to the length of the treatment program as well as the dose of allergen. Some people experience lasting relief from allergy symptoms, while others may relapse after discontinuing allergy shots.

WHAT ARE THE RISKS?

A typical reaction is redness and swelling at the injection site. This can happen immediately or several hours after the treatment. In some instances, symptoms can include increased allergy symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion or hives.

Serious reactions to allergy shots are rare. When they do occur, they require immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an anaphylactic reaction can include:

• Swelling in the throat
• Wheezing
• Tightness in the chest
• Nausea
• Dizziness

• Most serious reactions develop within 30 minutes of the allergy injections. This is why it is recommended you wait in the clinic for at least 30 minutes after you receive an allergy injection.

WHAT ARE THE PRECAUTIONS?

• If you are taking medications such as Beta Blockers (ex. Metoprolol, Bisoprolol, Carvedilol) you have to inform your doctor as it may interfere with the treatment or increase the risk of side effects.
• If you had any reactions from the last injection such as swelling at the injection site, rashes, or breathing difficulty inform the nurse about it prior to your injection.
• Do not come for your allergy shots if you are having fever above 38 degrees Celsius, hives, feeling of shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing.
• Avoid exercise or doing anything strenuous for at least 2 hours before and after receiving shot as it may cause the allergens to spread throughout your body faster, putting you at higher risk of an allergic reaction.

HOW DO YOU CONTACT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR NURSE?

If you have any questions or concerns, please call 800 8 CCAD (2223).