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allergy shots


Allergic Rhinitis Treatment: Allergy Shots
Allergy Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a term used for a series of allergy shots, which are meant to reduce the sensitivity to an allergen. This treatment involves injecting tiny amounts of the allergen under the skin. Images

The injections are performed over several months. The amount of allergen is increased slightly for each additional injection. Over time, the immune system adjusts to higher and higher levels of the allergen: the shots train the immune system not to overreact to exposure to the allergen.

Initial treatment requires 1 or 2 injection per week, for 3 to 6 months, followed by a maintenance injection every 2 to 4 weeks for another 3 to 5 years. Immunotherapy can improve symptoms in about 80 percent of people with allergies.
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Last Updated: Sep 12, 2007  References
Authors: Stephen J. Schueler, MDJohn H. Beckett, MDD. Scott Gettings, MD
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