Immunotherapy & Allergy Shots in Corpus Christi, TX
Allergen immunotherapy delivered by subcutaneous injection (allergy shots) is the most evidence-based, durable treatment available for IgE-mediated allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma. Unlike antihistamines and nasal sprays, which provide relief only while active, allergen immunotherapy induces lasting immunological changes that continue to protect patients even after the treatment course is completed. At Corpus Christi ENT Sinus & Allergy, Dr. Todd M. Weiss offers a comprehensive immunotherapy program for patients throughout the Corpus Christi area.
How Allergen Immunotherapy Works
Subcutaneous immunotherapy repeatedly exposes the immune system to gradually increasing doses of specific sensitizing allergens. Over time, this induces multiple immunological changes:
- Shift from an allergic (Th2-dominant) to a tolerogenic (Th1 and regulatory T cell) immune response
- Production of blocking IgG4 antibodies that compete with IgE for allergen binding
- Induction of regulatory T cells (Tregs) that suppress the allergic inflammatory cascade
- Reduction in nasal mucosal and bronchial sensitivity to allergen challenge
- Reduction in mast cell and basophil reactivity
The Immunotherapy Process
Allergy Testing and Extract Preparation
Allergy testing is performed first to identify specific sensitizing allergens. A customized treatment extract is then formulated based on test results and regional allergen prevalence.
Build-Up Phase
Injections are administered one to three times per week, with each dose incrementally increasing allergen concentration. The build-up phase typically lasts six to twelve months. Patients are observed for 20 to 30 minutes post-injection to monitor for systemic reactions.
Maintenance Phase
Once the target maintenance dose is reached, injections are spaced to every two to four weeks for a minimum of three to five years. Completing a full course results in sustained benefit that persists after injections are discontinued in the majority of patients.
Efficacy
Subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy has a decades-long evidence base. Randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses demonstrate significant reductions in allergy symptom scores, rescue medication use, and improvements in quality of life. It is the only intervention demonstrated to reduce the risk of progression from allergic rhinitis to asthma and to prevent the development of new allergen sensitivities.
Safety
Local reactions redness, swelling, and itching at the injection site are the most common side effect and are usually mild. Systemic reactions occur rarely (approximately one per one million injections). All injections are administered in the office with appropriate emergency equipment and trained staff present.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
- Adults and children (generally age five and older) with confirmed IgE-mediated allergic rhinitis
- Patients whose symptoms are not adequately controlled with environmental avoidance and pharmacotherapy
- Patients wishing to avoid long-term medication use or experiencing significant medication side effects
- Patients with comorbid allergic asthma
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you’re ready to treat the root cause of your allergies rather than just the symptoms, allergy shots may be right for you. Call us at (361) 320-6130 or connect with us online to schedule a consultation.