Allergy drops as effective as allergy shots

A scientific review of 63 published studies affirms that putting small amounts of purified grasses, ragweed, dust mites, pollen and mold, in liquid drops under the tongue is a safe and effective alternative to weekly injections of those allergens or the use of other medications, in treating symptoms of allergies and allergic asthma in some people. 

The Journal of the American Medical Association report is believed to be the largest synopsis of its kind, involving some 5,131 participants, almost all in Europe, where allergy drops, or sublingual immunotherapy, have been widely available for nearly two decades. Sublingual therapies have not been approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, but physicians in the United States do use the drops "off-label" for some patients.

Researchers found what they say is "strong evidence" that drop therapy produced a 40 percent or greater reduction in coughing, wheezing, and tightness in the chest compared with other treatments, including inhaled steroids.

In studies comparing allergy drops to other allergy treatments, including antihistamines and nasal steroid sprays, researchers found that allergy drops produced a 40 percent or greater reduction in symptoms of runny nose, sneezing and nasal congestion.

Allergy drops are more convenient for many people because they can be taken at home, and allow such individuals to avoid the discomfort and travel time needed for regularly scheduled trips to the physician's office for an allergy shot. According to current estimates, as many as 40 percent of Americans suffer from some form of allergic rhinitis or allergic asthma.

http://www.effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/ehc/products/270/1427/Allergy-Asthma-Immunotherapy-130319.pdf

Steve: This is wonderful news for the millions who go to the allergist weekly for shots. We have been touting the benefits of allergy drops (sublingual immunotherapy) for several years. It has been used successfully in Europe for over 15 years, but has failed to catch on in the U.S., mainly because allergists are afraid of losing money from weekly visits. 

Forget about the fact that drops are much easier on the patient. What would you choose: weekly visits or a visit every three to six months? If you are not familiar with the process, your allergist writes a prescription to a special pharmacy who mixes your environmental/food allergens. The drops, which are taken three times daily, last the average patient about three months. Usually, the allergist requests a visit every time he increases the strength of the drops for safety reasons. The therapy can last anywhere from 18 months to 4 years, depending on the severity and complexity of the allergies. In some cases, maintenance doses are suggested in perpetuity.

My son and daughter are currently using this therapy with great success.

Breaking news: it seems that Big Pharma is getting involved, which could be a game changer. The Food and Drug Administration is reviewing Merck & Co.'s new immunotherapy for grass pollen allergy. One tablet that dissolves under the tongue would be taken daily throughout allergy season for three years, to gradually desensitize the patient's immune system to the substance triggering the allergic reaction