Allergy shots (immunotherapy) are a method of treating allergic
rhinitis and allergic asthma in which small doses of substances (allergens) are
injected under the skin. Allergy shots may reduce or eliminate sensitivity to
the allergen that causes an allergic reaction.
A doctor will do skin or blood tests to determine what
the person is allergic to. Allergy shots are available for some allergies to:
- Pollen (ragweed, grasses,
trees).
- House dust mites and cockroaches.
- Animal dander
(dogs and cats).
- Mold (fungus).
- Insect venom (wasps,
bees, yellow jackets, hornets, fire ants).