Allergy Shots vs. Allergy Drops: Which Is Right for You?

Antihistamines and nasal sprays calm symptoms for a day. Allergy immunotherapy does something different: it slowly trains your immune system to stop overreacting. Taken for a few years, it can reduce symptoms and medication use for years after treatment ends.

There are two main ways to get it: shots in the arm, or tablets and drops under the tongue. Both work. The right one depends on what you're allergic to, your schedule and how you feel about needles.

How allergy shots work

Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy) are small injections of the things you're allergic to, given in the office.

Shots can cover many allergies at once: pollens, dust mites, mold and pet dander. They are also the standard treatment for stinging-insect allergy.

How under-the-tongue treatment works

Sublingual immunotherapy uses a tablet or liquid drops that dissolve under the tongue, taken daily at home after the first dose in the office.

• Tablets are FDA-approved for grass pollen, ragweed and dust mites. For pollen, you start about three months before the season.

• Drops are mixed for your specific allergies. They are widely used, though in the US drops are prescribed off-label and are not billed to insurance, so you pay for them directly.

• Side effects are usually mild, like an itchy mouth or throat in the first few weeks.

Side by side

• Where: shots are given in the office; tablets and drops are taken at home, daily.

• Needles: shots, yes; tablets and drops, no.

• Allergies covered: shots can treat many at once, including insect stings; tablets treat one allergen each, and drops can be combined.

• Insurance: shots are usually covered; tablets are often covered; drops are paid out of pocket.

Which is a better fit?

Shots may suit you if you have several allergies, an insect-sting allergy, or you like an in-office routine. Under-the-tongue treatment may suit you if you dislike needles, travel often, or have trouble getting to appointments.

Either way, the first step is allergy testing to confirm exactly what you're reacting to. From there, Dr. Lubitz will walk you through both options and what your insurance covers.

Book a visit in Midtown

Dr. Arthur Lubitz is a board-certified allergist who has treated New Yorkers for more than 35 years. His office is at 244 W 54th St, Suite 600, near Columbus Circle. Book online or call (212) 247-7447.

Related: Allergy Shots and Drops · Allergy Testing