There is exciting research out of Europe for treatment
of allergies called sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT). This is a way of offering “allergy shots” by taking drops
or tablets by mouth instead of the conventional allergy shot. SLIT, has shown to decrease time to get relief, maintain relief
of allergies and reduce risk of side effects.
A lot of research is being conducted in the US to gather
more data. Some research has shown benefit over the conventional allergy shot while some studies showed no benefit. There
are many questions that need to be addressed before SLIT gets approved by FDA in the United States.
The
doctors at Allergy & Asthma Specialty Service are excited about SLIT and its potential use for patients. Once there is
better research on safety, efficacy and approved by the FDA, we will offer this treatment to our patients.