Allergy Relief FAQ


Is SLIT (allergy drops) treatment safe?
The Johns Hopkins Sinus Center website states, "It is very safe, for both adults and children. In over 60 published studies on SLIT, the treatment has proven to be extraordinarily safe. In fact, there has never been a single death associated with SLIT treatment whereas death can occur in very rare instances with allergy shots. The World Health Organization (WHO) has endorsed sublingual immunotherapy as a viable alternative to injection immunotherapy.

How does SLIT treatment work?

By introducing a small amount of the allergen to the body in each daily treatment, over time the tolerance of the immune system will increase. As the tolerance of the immune system increases and sensitivity to allergies decrease, you will experience significant reduction or elimination of allergy symptoms.

Is SLIT expensive?

It is actually less expensive than other forms of allergy treatment.

  • In April 2000, Respiratory Reviews published a study indicating that a patient's out-of-pocket cost for over the counter and prescription medications treatment for year-round allergic rhinitis was $1,200.
  • The out-of-pocket copay for allergy shots usually cost in excess of $1,000 a year.
  • A SLIT treatment kit of the allergy drops costs $75 + $15 shipping for a two month supply or $540 a year.

How can I or one of my family members receive SLIT treatment?

The SLIT treatment kit must be prescribed by your doctor. Contact us and PCI will send you specific instructions you’ll need to contact your doctor about the program. Once your doctor has the information necessary to write the prescription, you can make an appointment to begin treatment.

What if I have a friend who wants relief from their allergy symptoms? Can they register?

Yes. Simply refer them to the registration form here.

When will I begin to see results?

Most people will notice a significant reduction or total elimination of their allergy symptoms in 60 to 120 days.

How long do I need to take allergy drops?

While most people notice a significant reduction or elimination of their allergy symptoms in 60 to 120 days, it takes about 3 years to recalibrate the tolerance threshold of the immune system so that SLIT treatment can be discontinued.

How easy is it to take?

Simply place a few drops from a measured vial under your tongue each morning. It’s that simple.

What if I’m already on subcutaneous immunotherapy treatment (allergy shots)? Can I transition to allergy drops?

In many cases, yes.

Does this treat food allergies?

No, this treatment only applies to environmental (inhalant) allergies.

What types of environmental allergies are treated by this medication?

The SLIT universal allergenic extract treats over 70 common inhalant allergies in the United States. Many types of weeds and grasses such as ragweed, Bermuda, Johnson, fescue and others are covered. A variety of tree allergies such as cottonwood, pine, oak, birch, elm and others can be eliminated with this treatment. Also included are molds and animals such as dog, cat, horses, cattle, dust mites, and a variety of feather allergies.

Are allergy drops safe for children?

Yes. SLIT is safe for kids down to age 3 years old.


Will I need to be tested for allergies?
It is important to determine what you are allergic to so that treatment can be coupled with avoidance strategies. While the treatment can be prescribed based on observation, you’ll see results more quickly if you combine treatment with avoidance of known allergens. Your doctor will provide the allergy testing.

Why shouldn’t I just continue to take antihistamines?

While that is certainly an option, antihistamines only temporarily mask allergy symptoms. They have no curative effect and lose their effectiveness over time. If you actually want to eliminate your allergies, immunotherapy is your best option.

Who is PCI?

PCI (Physician Consulting, Inc.) is a national physician consulting company providing turnkey medical treatment programs to primary care physicians that improve patient outcomes. PCI focuses on primary care because we understand that primary care physicians are the foundation of our medical system yet are also under the most pressure in an unstable medical environment. Our mission is to strengthen primary care physician practices by providing better treatment options that benefit their patients and financial outlook.