Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) in Richmond, VA

A Needle-Free Approach to Long-Term Allergy Relief

Woman smiling outdoors in richmond, va representing oral immunotherapy and allergy treatment solutions

At Richmond Allergy & Asthma Specialists, we help our patients manage allergies that disrupt their day-to-day comfort. Seasonal pollen, dust mites and other common environmental triggers can all cause sensitivities. We offer sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT), a treatment that helps the immune system become less sensitive to certain allergens over time. Instead of injections, patients take specially prescribed allergy tablets or drops under the tongue.

Our team of allergists provide personalized allergy testing and treatment for patients throughout Henrico, Richmond and the surrounding communities. If you’re looking for an alternative to traditional allergy shots, we can help you determine whether this needle-free option is right for you.

What Should You Know About SLIT?

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is an allergy treatment that works similarly to allergy injections but does not require shots. Instead, small doses of allergen extract are placed under the tongue via tablets or drops on a prescribed schedule. This controlled exposure gradually helps your immune system become less sensitive to triggers.

SLIT is used to treat environmental allergies such as:

  • Treatment: Uses small amounts of allergens placed under the tongue to gradually reduce allergic sensitivity.

  • Who it helps: Certain patients with allergic rhinitis, including allergies to grass pollen, ragweed and dust mites.

  • Convenience: After an initial supervised dose from our team, most doses can be taken conveniently at home.

  • Insurance: Coverage varies, and SLIT is not typically covered by insurance. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to learn more about your specific plan.

  • Next step: Allergy testing and a thorough evaluation by our team can help determine whether SLIT is a suitable option.

What Is Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)?

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) works similarly to allergy injections but does not require repeated weekly shots. Instead, small doses of allergen extract are placed under the tongue as tablets or drops on a prescribed schedule. After the first supervised dose, treatment can usually continue conveniently at home with occasional follow-up visits! This gradual, controlled exposure helps the immune system become less sensitive to allergy triggers over time, making SLIT a convenient and accessible option for many patients.

It can help treat a range of common allergies, including:

  • Pollen
  • Dust mites
  • Mold
  • Pet dander
  • Grass or tree allergies

Unlike antihistamines or nasal sprays, which mainly ease surface-level symptoms, immunotherapy is designed to change the body’s deeper allergic response. For many of our patients, this means symptom improvement that lasts beyond the treatment period!

What Allergy Symptoms May Benefit From Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)?

Environmental allergies can affect patients in many ways—from overall comfort to sleep, and even the ability to enjoy daily routines comfortably. We see patients who experience symptoms only during certain seasons, as well as others who struggle year-round.

The most common symptoms we see lead patients to consider sublingual immunotherapy include:

  • Frequent sneezing or a persistent runny nose
  • Nasal congestion that makes breathing through the nose difficult

  • Itchy, watery or irritated eyes

  • Itching in the nose or throat
  • Postnasal drip and throat irritation
  • Sleep disturbances caused by nasal symptoms
  • Recurring allergy symptoms despite medication
  • Symptoms that interfere with outdoor activities, work, or exercise

These symptoms often accompany allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever. Although the name suggests a seasonal problem, allergic rhinitis can actually occur year-round.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)?

Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) can be a great treatment option for our patients who have confirmed environmental allergies and want fewer routine office visits than traditional allergy shots. We generally find that good candidates have symptoms that match a specific allergen identified through testing and can follow the prescribed dosing schedule consistently.

You may benefit from discussing this treatment with our team if you:

  • Experience recurring seasonal or year-round allergic rhinitis
  • Have confirmed sensitivity to an allergen covered by an appropriate SLIT product
Man smiling outdoors in richmond, va representing sublingual immunotherapy and oral allergy treatment options
  • Continue to experience symptoms despite avoidance measures or medications
  • Prefer a needle-free treatment option
  • Can commit to daily or otherwise prescribed treatment over an extended period
  • Understand the possible side effects and emergency precautions

SLIT Vs. Allergy Shots: Is SLIT As Effective?

Both allergy shots and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) help your immune system become less reactive to allergens. The difference is in how they’re given, which allergens they treat, treatment schedules and insurance coverage. SLIT can be an effective option for certain environmental allergies. No matter what you decide, one of our allergists will help you choose the approach that best fits you!

What Happens During Sublingual Immunotherapy Treatment?

Our team is always here to keep you informed and comfortable throughout your treatment. Many of our patients are surprised to learn that they can complete treatment at home, and it’s completely natural to have questions about what your testing and follow-up appointments will look like. Richmond Allergy & Asthma Specialists makes each step clear for you in this new process!

Step 1: Your Initial Allergy Consultation

Your first appointment will look like a conversation about your symptoms, medical history, as well as any goals you have for treatment.

All of this information helps us determine whether immunotherapy is the right choice and which testing may be needed!

Step 2: Allergy Testing

Before we recommend SLIT, we first need to identify the allergens responsible for your symptoms.

Allergy testing can help identify your triggers, so we can personalize your treatment and determine if SLIT is the best fit for your needs. We’re always here to support you every step of the way and ensure that you feel comfortable as we decide on the right treatment together.

Step 3: Creating Your Treatment Plan

Once your allergist has identified your allergens, they will then discuss the available treatment options.

Treatment for you may involve small doses of allergen extract administered under the tongue as tablets or drops, depending on the option your allergist recommends.

Step 4: Taking Your First Dose

The first dose of the allergy tablet must be administered under our supervision so we can watch for an allergic reaction and explain how to recognize and respond to symptoms.

After this first dose is given and you have been observed, you can continue your SLIT treatment at home as directed!

Step 5: Continuing Treatment at Home

The tablet is placed beneath the tongue and allowed to dissolve. Be sure to follow the product’s specific instructions about swallowing, eating, drinking and handling the medication.

Step 6: Monitoring Your Progress

Follow-up appointments help us see how well treatment is working and whether you are dealing with any side effects.

These visits also give you a chance to talk to us about any concerns and see whether any adjustments are needed.

Why Medical Supervision Matters

The fact that treatment is taken at home does not mean it should be started without medical guidance. An allergist evaluates whether the treatment matches your allergies, reviews potential contraindications and provides instructions for managing side effects or missed doses.

Patients with asthma need particular attention because poorly controlled asthma can increase the risk of serious reactions.

Sublingual Immunotherapy In Richmond

Richmond Allergy & Asthma Specialists provides allergy care at 9920 Independence Park Dr., Suite 100, Henrico, VA 23233. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal pollen allergies or year-round indoor triggers, our team can help identify the cause of your symptoms and explore treatment options.

FAQs About Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)

If you’re considering allergy treatment without regular injections, you may have questions. Below, we’ve answered some of the most common ones. If you have additional questions, our team is here to help.

Are allergy drops as effective as allergy shots?

SLIT can be a very effective alternative for certain environmental allergies. Our allergists with you will help determine which option is best based on your specific symptoms and environment, so our approach is personalized to your needs. We want to ensure your plan fits your lifestyle!

SLIT is not considered a cure, but it can greatly help reduce your sensitivity to certain allergens and improve your symptoms over time. Some patients continue to experience benefits after treatment ends, although results vary from person to person.

Yes! Children dealing with allergies can also benefit from sublingual immunotherapy, and our team is always happy to accept patients of all ages!

Yes. Children with allergies can benefit from immunotherapy, and at Richmond Allergy & Asthma Specialists, we’re happy to accept pediatric patients.

Can I stop taking allergy medication once I start SLIT?

Not right away. Many patients continue antihistamines, nasal sprays, or other prescribed medications when they first begin SLIT. As symptoms improve, some patients may need these medications less often. Keep taking your medications as directed unless your allergist recommends a change.

SLT is not used to treat food allergies. It is used to treat environmental allergies such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander and grass or tree allergies.
If you’re looking for treatment for food allergies, learn more about Oral immunotherapy (OIT).

Yes! Testing is helpful to our team, as it can help identify the allergens that may be causing your symptoms so that your treatment can be more effective for you!

In many cases, allergy drops are not covered by health insurance, Medicare or Medicaid.

Before starting treatment, we recommend that you contact your insurance provider to confirm your benefits. Our team can also help you understand what questions to ask about the recommended treatment! Read more about our insurance information.

Find Out if Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) Is Right for You

You shouldn’t have to plan your life around allergy symptoms. If medication isn’t providing enough relief, it may be time to explore a different approach to treatment.

At Richmond Allergy & Asthma Specialists, we are happy to welcome you as a patient. Our experienced team is here to help identify your triggers and determine whether sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is the best next step in your allergy treatment. We welcome new patients from Henrico, Richmond and the surrounding communities.

Call our team at (804) 285-7420 or request an appointment to get started—we can’t wait to meet you!

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