Allergy drops, also known as SLIT (sublingual immunotherapy), reduce your allergy symptoms by "desensitizing" you to pollens, pets, molds, and dust mites. This treatment involves placing a small amount of an allergen under the tongue (sublingual) daily to help the immune system build tolerance over time.
"Today, we see more people choosing allergy drops over shots because the drops offer a comfortable and convenient alternative to traditional allergy shots," says Hetu Y. Parekh, MD, Allergy and Asthma. "This option can be especially appealing for busy working professionals, for children, or anyone looking for a needle-free approach to care."
With fewer in-office appointments, patients can stick to their treatment plan more easily. The at-home approach also adds a level of comfort that many families appreciate.
Why are allergy drops gaining popularity among patients?
Unlike allergy shots, which must be given by a nurse in a doctor's office or shot clinic, allergy drops can be taken at home — making them a convenient option for many patients. Like allergy shots, the drops do require a prescription from a doctor or advanced practice clinician (APC) as they are customized to each patient's specific allergies and are therefore not available over the counter.
Key benefits of allergy drops:
- Convenience: Allergy drops are taken at home, so there's no need for frequent clinic visits — making treatment easier to stick with.
- Effectiveness: Over time, small doses of allergens can help reduce symptoms and make everyday triggers more manageable.
- Custom treatment: Each prescription is made just for you, based on your specific allergy triggers.
What allergens can be targeted with allergy drops?
Allergy drops are commonly used to treat environmental allergies, including:
- Tree pollen
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Pet dander
- Grass and weed pollen
By targeting these triggers, SLIT can help reduce symptoms and improve daily comfort.
What allergens require allergy shots?
"While allergy drops are helpful for many, some allergens are still best treated with allergy shots," says Dr. Parekh. "For example, certain insect venom allergies or more complex cases may require in-office immunotherapy."
Your doctor or APC will recommend the best treatment based on your symptoms, medical history, and specific allergies.
Learn more about SLIT.
About ARC Allergy and Asthma
ARC Allergy and Asthma specialists are doctors and APCs specially trained in diagnosing, treating, and managing allergy and asthma disorders. ARC Allergy and Asthma doctors and APCs can diagnose asthma and your environmental, food, or drug allergies, then develop a personalized treatment plan that may include allergy testing, medication, or allergy drops and shots.
Time to plan for back to school!
Now is the time to schedule a visit with your ARC Allergy and Asthma doctor or APC to get your child's Food Allergy Action Plan and/or Asthma Action Plan forms filled out for the upcoming school year.
Call today to schedule
Dr. Parekh sees patients of all ages at ARC Anderson Mill in Austin and ARC Four Points in Austin. He has a Fellowship in Allergy/Immunology from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, LA.
To make an appointment with Dr. Parekh, call 512-272-4636 (512-ARC-INFO).