For over 100 years, allergen-specific immunotherapy has been used to assist those with allergies from suffering from symptoms.  These allergy injections take components from the very substances that cause  allergies (e.g., dust mites, bee venom) and administer them to patients in gradually increasing doses.  This seems to create a state of tolerance to the allergens when they are encountered in the course of ones day.  The FDA has approved 19 allergen extracts (dog, cat, 2 for dust mites, 9 for various grass pollens, and 6 for various bee and wasp venoms).  Immunotherapy is not likely to be indicated for children whose symptoms are mild, who suffer from allergic symptoms for short periods of time, who can avoid the allergy source, or who respond to anti-histamines and other medications. 

Immunotherapy may very well be indicated for patients who have moderate to severe rhino-conjunctivitis (watery eyes and nose) and who do not respond well to medications, for patients with allergic asthma, and for patients with a history of a systemic reaction to bee, wasp and fire and stings (systemic reaction: means the allergic response, such as rash and/or inflammation, is not limited to the area contiguous with the area of the sting).  There is growing evidence that children with allergic symptoms have a smaller likelihood of developing asthma, if they receive immunotherapy for a period of at least three years.

Therapy begins with once- to twice-a-week injections for up to 6 months, followed by monthly injections for three years.  The possibility of anaphylaxis after an injection is always present and children must remain with in the vicinity of their doctor (with epinephrine available) for at least 20-30 minutes.  Since engaging in strenuous activity immediately after the injection may hasten absorption of the allergen, children need to avoid this for several hours. 

(Finegold I. J Resp Dis Pediatrician 2003; 5(1):34-39.)

Comment:  It is difficult to maintain compliance with receiving these immunotherapy shots over the course of months and years --  but such adherence is important for efficacy.       – H.T.