shot for allergies?

i was wondering if the shots actually work....and how long do they last

[bsmsl]

Hello,

Allergy shots (immunotherapy) do work very well for most people.  Usually, you can start feeling a difference in 3 - 6 months.  They take 2 - 5 years (rarely longer) to become desensitized to your allergens.  The desensitization is permanent.

Make sure you get true immunotherapy.  These shots are small amounts of your allergens given in a controlled environment to teach your immune system to "not over react" to these normally harmless substances.  Some facilities give steroid shots calling them allergy shots.  Make sure you are not getting this type of a shot.  

God bless.

[sal3132]

they work by building your immunity up against the things you are allergic to in small doses over time and once the treatments are finished you shouldn't need any more

[Dr Santos]

Hi,
How are you? Allergy shots  or  immunotherapy are usually recommended if the allergen cannot be avoided and symptoms are hard to control. Regular injections of the allergen are usually given (with each dose slightly larger than the previous dose) until a maximum dose is reached. However, these do not work for everybody and require frequent follow-up to your attending physician. Indeed, they may require years of treatment, but they work in most cases.They can also cause uncomfortable side effects and possible dangerous outcomes , such as anaphylaxis. Talk to your doctor about this for proper evaluation. Take care and regards.