Many of you may have seen articles in the press recently about a “new” treatment for allergies: sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), which has been available in Europe for more than 50 years and used in the United States for 45 years. Like allergy shots, it gives the patient the same small amount of allergen to reprogram the body to become less allergic.

What’s the difference between SLIT and allergy shots?

The difference with SLIT is that you can get a response similar to that of allergy shots by placing drops under the tongue. Specialized cells that reside under the tongue directly connect with your immune system in just the right way to reeducate it to react less strongly to allergens. Unlike shots, the drops do not require weekly or monthly visits to the doctor, as they are taken home after the first visit.

If this treatment has been around so long, why am I just hearing about it now?

While the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not yet approved SLIT, it is the same medicine that is given in shots. The difference is in how it is given—by mouth instead of injection. Until allergy drops obtain FDA approval, US physicians are prescribing them “off label.” This means the drug is approved for use in the US but not for the way we are using it. Many medications, some as simple as aspirin, are used like this when recommended by a physician.

Is it safe?

We have known for some time that SLIT is safe—local reactions such as throat irritation and itching are the most common symptoms and are brief, self-limited and decrease over time. Because of its safety profile and because it does not require injection, it is perfect for use in children.

But does it work?

Well, that’s what the latest buzz in allergy treatment is about. The March 27th issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association reviewed 63 studies on SLIT used in 5,100 patients worldwide aged 4 to74. The results support that SLIT is effective—and very much so, when compared to placebo, medications or shots. Any sort of allergy can be treated and it works for asthma and food allergies, as well. In all the studies reviewed, there were no life-threatening reactions. The researchers encourage continued investigation of this medication because of these promising results.

Excited? Yes, so am I! I’m pleased to say I’ve been prescribing SLIT for a number of years and that many of my patients have gotten significant relief. In some patients, we use it simply for allergy control. In others, adding SLIT has reduced attacks of sinusitis, improving quality of life overall. These drops, combined with medications or other natural treatments, such as nasal irrigation, herbal antihistamines, anti-inflammatories and homeopathic remedies, can mean the difference between suffering spring through fall and being able to enjoy this beautiful season with less discomfort.

To find an excellent allergist who is right for you, please call our Physician Referral Service at 866.804.1007.