Sublingual Immunotherapy

What is Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)?

Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) is an allergy treatment to reduce allergic reactions by desensitizing the immune system to specific allergens. It’s done by giving very small doses of allergens under the tongue. It’s great for environmental allergens like pollen and dust mites and a needle-free alternative to traditional allergy shots.

For children with severe food allergies, SLIT is a game changer. Research and clinical use have expanded the use of SLIT to include food allergens like peanuts, eggs and milk. With SLIT the goal is to reduce sensitivity and improve tolerance over time, minimizing allergic reactions and helping your child live a more comfortable life.

How Does SLIT Work?

SLIT works by gradually exposing the immune system to the allergen and helping it become tolerant. By giving small controlled doses of allergens under the tongue the immune system learns to recognize the allergen as harmless rather than triggering a reaction. Here’s how it works:

1. Initial Testing and Assessment:
   • First step is allergy testing to determine your child’s specific allergens. This may include skin prick tests, blood tests or oral food challenges to identify the exact triggers.
2. Starting the Treatment:
   • Once allergens are identified SLIT begins with a small dose of the allergen, usually in liquid or tablet form. The initial dose is very, very low to ensure safety and is given under medical supervision.
3. Gradual Dose Increase:
   • During the build-up phase the dose is gradually increased over several months. This phase may involve office visits to monitor the child’s response to the allergens and ensure they tolerate the treatment well. Between office visits the dose is given at home.
4. Maintenance Phase:
   • After reaching the optimal dose your child will enter the maintenance phase. At this point they will take the allergen daily at home for 3-5 years following your allergist’s instructions. Regular follow up appointments are scheduled to monitor progress and adjust treatment if necessary.

Benefits of SLIT

SLIT has many advantages especially for children with allergies. Some of the benefits include:* Convenience:
SLIT is given at home after the initial treatment phase, so it’s easier for busy families. No need to go to the clinic for injections or multiple observed dose increases.

• Needle-Free Treatment: Unlike traditional allergy shots, SLIT is non-invasive so it’s a more comfortable option for kids who are needle phobic.
• Long-Term Relief: SLIT provides long term allergy relief by gradually desensitizing the immune system to the allergens which can lead to a lasting reduction in allergic reactions even after treatment is finished.
• Effective for Multiple Allergies: SLIT is versatile and can be used for multiple allergens including pollen, dust mites, pet dander and even food allergens like peanuts and eggs.
• Safety: SLIT is extremely safe due to the low dose and oral administration.

Who is a good candidate for SLIT?

SLIT is good for many individuals including children who suffer from allergies. Here’s who may benefit most from this treatment:

• Children with seasonal allergies: If your child has pollen, mold or pet dander allergies SLIT can help manage these triggers.
• Children who need a long term solution: If your child’s allergies are not well controlled by medication alone SLIT is a long term treatment option.
• Parents of needle phobic children: If your child is afraid of needles SLIT is a needle free option that can be given at home.
• Busy families: If you don’t have time to go to the clinic multiple times a month for allergy shots or OIT SLIT may be a convenient option since it’s mostly given at home.
• Children with food allergies: SLIT can be effective for certain food allergies like peanuts, eggs and milk especially for children who react to trace amounts of food allergen or have had severe reactions to foods.

Conclusion

Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) is a treatment for children who suffer from allergies, providing long term relief through gradual desensitization of the immune system. Whether your child has food allergies, seasonal allergies or dust mites SLIT is a convenient, needle free alternative to traditional allergy shots. At Empower we're here to help you get through your allergy journey.

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