Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) is a prescription allergy treatment designed to help reduce your immune system’s sensitivity to allergens over time.
This treatment involves taking small amounts of specific allergens daily in the form of tablets or drops placed under the tongue. By gradually exposing the immune system to these allergens, SLIT helps “train” the body to become less reactive.
SLIT works similarly to traditional allergy shots, but offers the convenience of at-home administration after initial assessment and prescription. Unlike injectable immunotherapy, SLIT has a very strong safety profile and does not require regular in-office injections.
SLIT may be beneficial for individuals experiencing:
Before beginning treatment, allergy testing is performed to identify which allergens may be contributing to your symptoms.
Skin Prick Testing
Skin prick testing is completed in-office and typically takes approximately 15–20 minutes. During the test, small amounts of common allergens are introduced to the skin using a gentle prick. If an allergy is present, a small raised, itchy bump may develop at the testing site.
One advantage of skin prick testing is that results are available immediately, allowing treatment recommendations and planning to begin right away. Patients should be aware that the following must be discontinued prior to testing:
Blood (Serum IgE) Testing
For patients who are unable to stop allergy medications, or who have active eczema on their arms (where skin prick testing is typically done), serum IgE blood testing may be recommended. This testing is completed through LifeLabs and involves a standard blood draw.
Results are reviewed during a follow-up appointment to discuss treatment options and determine whether immunotherapy may be appropriate.
Starting SLIT Treatment
If SLIT is recommended, treatment is prescribed based on your specific allergy profile. Your first dose is administered in-office during a short 15-minute appointment so we can ensure it is well tolerated. After that, medication is taken daily at home and is generally continued over an extended period to help build long-term immune tolerance.
Regular follow-up appointments help monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Immunotherapy aims to address the underlying immune response contributing to allergy symptoms, rather than simply masking symptoms temporarily.
Research supports the effectiveness of SLIT. A Cochrane review found that approximately 80% of people experience meaningful symptom relief, with 40% achieving full resolution of their allergy symptoms. Evidence shows improvements in asthma, allergic rhinitis, and conjunctivitis, as well as reduced reliance on allergy medications.
Potential benefits of SLIT may include:
Because every patient's allergy history and symptoms are unique, treatment recommendations are individualized based on testing results, medical history, and goals of care.
If you are struggling with ongoing allergy symptoms and would like to learn more about allergy testing or immunotherapy, book with one of our naturopathic doctors.
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