SLIT
Sublingual Immunotherapy
Sublingual immunotherapy, or SLIT, is quickly becoming the preferred method for the treatment of
allergies and rhinitis, which is irritation and inflammation of the mucous membrane inside the nose.
Common symptoms are a stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing, and post-nasal drip. As an alternative
option to shots, SLIT is taken at home by the patient and administered using a small pump that
distributes drops of liquid underneath the patient’s tongue. The drops consist of allergen extracts that
the patient has tested positive for during a previous allergy skin test, making each bottle completely
unique to the patient’s needs.
SLIT is both highly effective and safe. Unlike shots, they do not require the patient to leave their home
for treatment and are safe enough to be taken without the constant supervision of a doctor. Many
parents have chosen the drops over shots simply to spare their children from weekly injections, and for
the simplicity of administration. Additionally, the overall course of treatment is much shorter when
compared to their injection counterparts. While injections can take anywhere from 5 to 7 years to build
lasting immunity, SLIT is closer to 3 to 5 years, allowing patients to experience results much faster.
While SLIT is still undergoing FDA approval, it is important to note that each and every component of
the mix is FDA approved. The same ingredients that go into the drop mix are exactly what are used for
the injections. It is merely the route of administration that is still under review and until then, drops are
being prescribed “off-label”, much like many other medications that are used in healthcare. This by no
means lessens the effectiveness and safety of the drops.
At Atlantic Ear, Nose and Throat, our office offers both comprehensive allergy skin testing and follow
up care with sublingual immunotherapy. Our allergy staff is involved in your treatment every step of
the way and will gladly assist you with questions, reordering, and scheduling to assist you with staying
on course and seeing results.
Call us today for a complimentary consultation. We are looking forward
to helping you feel better again! (386) 774-9880 option 5.
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