After the effective dose is reached, the maintenance phase is implemented, which varies depending upon an individual’s response to the build-up phase. The length of the build-up phase is dependent upon how often injections are administered, but normally ranges from three to six months.

The build-up phase involves the patient being administered injections which contain increasing amounts of allergens about one to two times per week. Subcutaneous immunotherapy protocols generally involve weekly injections during a build-up phase, followed by monthly a maintenance phase that consists of injections for a period of 3–5 years. Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), also known as allergy shots, is the historical route of administration and consists of injections of allergen extract, which must be performed by a medical professional.

5.1 Recognition by international agencies.

A detailed diagnosis is necessary to identify the allergens involved. ĭiscovered by Leonard Noon and John Freeman in 1911, allergen immunotherapy is the only medicine known to tackle not only the symptoms but also the causes of respiratory allergies. Severe side effects such as anaphylaxis during subcutaneous immunotherapy treatment are relatively uncommon. Potential side effects related to subcutaneous immunotherapy treatment for asthma and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis include mild or moderate skin or respiratory reactions. Anaphylaxis during sublingual immunotherapy treatment has occurred on rare occasions. Side effects during sublingual immunotherapy treatment are usually local and mild and can often be eliminated by adjusting the dosage. Immunotherapy is not recommended as a stand-alone treatment for asthma. In this form the allergen is given under the tongue and people often prefer it to injections. The evidence also supports the use of sublingual immunotherapy against rhinitis and asthma, but it is less strong. It is generally safe and effective for allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic forms of asthma, and stinging insects. The benefits may last for years after treatment is stopped. Meta-analyses have found that injections of allergens under the skin are effective in the treatment in allergic rhinitis in children and in asthma. Immunotherapy involves exposing people to larger and larger amounts of allergen in an attempt to change the immune system's response. Allergen immunotherapy, also known as desensitization or hypo-sensitization, is a medical treatment for environmental allergies, such as insect bites, and asthma.

Pclp for needle desensitisation