Allergy shots (immunotherapy)

Allergy shots (immunotherapy) are a method of treating allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma in which small doses of substances (allergens) are injected under the skin. Allergy shots may reduce or eliminate sensitivity to the allergen that causes an allergic reaction.

A health professional will do skin or blood tests to determine what the person is allergic to. Allergy shots are available for some allergies to:

• Pollen (ragweed, grasses, trees).
• House dust mites and cockroaches.
• Animal dander (dogs and cats).
• Mold (fungus).
• Insect venom (wasps, bees, yellow jackets, hornets, fire ants).