Allergy immunotherapy (AIT) : The only hope for allergies

Allergy immunotherapy (AIT) : The only hope for allergies

Allergy Immunotherapy (AIT), often called allergy shots or drops, is a disease-reversing treatment that targets the root cause of allergies by gradually desensitizing the immune system to specific allergens. Unlike conventional medicines that only treat symptoms, AIT can lead to long-lasting relief and prevent the progression of allergic diseases like rhinitis and asthma. 

AIT is delivered in two main forms:
1. Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT): These are the traditional allergy shots given by injection, typically in a clinic. They are highly effective for a wide range of allergens.However SCIT is not yet approved in India by DCGI.
2. Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT): This involves placing drops or a tablet containing the allergen extract under the tongue. SLIT can often be taken at home, making it a more convenient option for many patients.
In India, the introduction of a new molecule, Sensimmune, marks a significant stride in treatment. Sensimmune is a standardized dust mite SLIT tablet, providing a highly specific, safe, and effective approach to treating chronic dust mite allergies. This innovation expands the availability of convenient, disease-modifying treatment, offering patients a better quality of life by reducing the severity of allergic symptoms and the need for daily medication. Allergy immunotherapy has also shown reduction of hospitalisations and flare ups of allergic asthma (Asthma attacks ). Allergies are treatable and we can prevent the further worsening of allergies if treated on time with appropriate therapy.

Dr. Pravin Taware
Pulmonologist
Dr. Aditi Shah
Allergologist

Aeris Clinic Of Allergy Chest & Sleep Care, Matunga East, Mumbai