Allergies can be incredibly frustrating, affecting everything from your comfort to your productivity. Whether it’s seasonal allergies, mold and dust allergies, or pet allergies, finding an effective treatment is essential for finding allergy relief. Luckily, there are several options available. Here we’ll explore three common ways to treat allergies, and why allergy drops like Circava System™ therapy may be the best solution for many people seeking an effective, long-lasting allergy treatment.
1. Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) antihistamines, decongestants, and nasal sprays are some of the most common options for treating allergy symptoms. Antihistamines like cetirizine (Zyrtec), loratadine (Claritin), and diphenhydramine (Benadryl) work by blocking histamine, the chemical your body releases when exposed to allergens. Decongestants reduce nasal congestion by shrinking swollen nasal tissues.
While OTC medications are convenient and can provide quick relief, they only temporarily mask the symptoms and don’t treat the root cause of allergies. They also tend to have side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. For people who need long-term relief, these medications can become less effective over time and require more frequent dosing. The cost of over-the-counter medication is also a major drawback. The average American with allergies spends $566 each year on OTC medications just to manage the allergy symptoms that are sure to return.
2. Allergy Shots (Subcutaneous Immunotherapy)
For more persistent and severe allergies, allergy shots, also known as subcutaneous immunotherapy, have been the traditional go-to treatment. This therapy works by exposing your immune system to small, controlled amounts of allergens through injections, gradually building up tolerance over time.
However, allergy shots require frequent visits to a doctor’s office—often requiring weekly injections for several months, followed by monthly maintenance shots for several years. This makes it a time-consuming and inconvenient option for many people, particularly those with busy schedules like families and students. There’s also the discomfort associated with needles, making this option less appealing for people who have a fear of injections. Allergy shots are also unavailable to young children, and carry the risk of negative side effects.
3. Allergy Drops (Sublingual Immunotherapy)
Allergy drops, or sublingual immunotherapy, offer a convenient and effective alternative to allergy shots. Rather than receiving injections, patients use drops that are administered orally. Like allergy shots, the goal of this treatment is to desensitize your immune system to allergens. The key difference is that allergy drops can be administered at home, saving you time and eliminating the need for frequent doctor visits.
The benefits of allergy drops go beyond convenience. Studies have shown that sublingual immunotherapy is a safe and effective option for treating a range of allergies, including those caused by pollen, dust mites, mold, and pet dander. The treatment has been particularly appealing for children and people who are needle-averse.
Additionally, allergy drops are personalized to target your specific allergens, making them a tailored approach. Because this treatment is administered in the comfort of your home, it’s ideal for those seeking an at-home allergy treatment that fits seamlessly into their lifestyle.
Why Allergy Drops Are the Best Choice
While all three treatment options have merits, allergy drops stand out as the most convenient and long-term solution. Unlike OTC medications, which only mask symptoms, and allergy shots, which are time-intensive and inconvenient, allergy drops offer a way to safely and effectively treat the cause of your allergies.
If you’re looking for a non-invasive, at-home allergy treatment alternative to allergy shots, Circava System therapy by Potens Allergy is an ideal solution. It’s a safe, convenient, and injection-free way to find lasting relief from your allergies. 84% of patients using Circava achieve allergy remission in an average of 28 days.
Visit us at potensallergy.com/find-a-doctor/ to see if your provider is on the list. If not, submit their name, and we’ll work with them directly to get you the treatment.
