Immunotherapy is a preventive treatment for allergic reactions to allergens like grass pollens, house dust mites, and pet dander. It involves gradually increasing doses of the allergen to which the person is allergic. The incremental increases in the allergen cause the immune system to become less sensitive, reducing allergy symptoms when the substance is encountered in the future. Immunotherapy also reduces the inflammation that characterizes rhinitis and asthma.
How Immunotherapy Works
Allergy immunotherapy works by gradually desensitizing the immune system to allergens. Patients are exposed to small, controlled amounts of allergens over time, allowing their bodies to build tolerance. The most common types include subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), which involves regular allergy shots, and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), where patients take drops or tablets under the tongue or in the vestibular area, which is between the gums and cheeks.
The commitment required for allergy shots is substantial, with treatment spanning years. Patients must stick to the plan for the full duration to gain the benefits, making comfort and convenience key factors in success.
Barriers to Patient Compliance
Despite the potential for life-changing results, many patients struggle to stay on track with immunotherapy, especially allergy shots. For some, the idea of frequent injections is daunting. Others may find the time commitment involved in regular visits to a doctor’s office to be impractical, especially when balancing work or family responsibilities.
Another factor affecting compliance is the fear of side effects, which can be life-threatening in the case of allergy shots. Allergy tablet side effects include anaphylaxis, which can result in severe itching, nausea, breathing difficulties, and anaphylactic shock. An epinephrine autoinjector may be recommended for patients taking allergy tablets in case the patient experiences an allergic reaction at home (Source: American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology).
Improving Patient Comfort
Addressing these challenges starts with improving the allergy immunotherapy experience. For patients who are hesitant about injections, sublingual or oral options may provide a gentler alternative. Personalized allergy treatments that align with a patient’s schedule and lifestyle can also reduce the burden of frequent appointments.
Education plays a critical role in patient comfort during allergy shots as well. When patients understand what to expect and how to manage minor side effects, they are more likely to stick to the treatment schedule. Providing resources such as symptom trackers or providing support when needed can empower patients to take an active role in their treatment.
Encouraging Compliance
Clear communication between healthcare providers and patients is vital to enhancing patient compliance in allergy treatment. Regular check-ins, whether in person or through virtual appointments, help patients feel supported throughout their treatment. Tools such as mobile apps that track symptoms and progress can also serve as reminders to stay on schedule.
Circava System™ therapy is a personalized oral immunotherapy that has an 84% compliance rate and can be administered to children as young as 3 ½, to people with some types of autoimmune diseases, and to those taking beta blockers.
For physicians interested in becoming a Circava System prescriber, email info@potensallergy.com to get started.
