Millions of people in the United States experience allergies, which lead to many non-productive days and significant discomfort in daily life. While adults can often “deal” with these conditions, children are particularly vulnerable to their symptoms. Because allergies frequently appear in childhood, the underlying problem must be carefully identified and treated. By controlling the symptoms, we can halt their progression, lessen the risk of developing secondary complications, such as asthma and sinusitis, and, most importantly, help our patients feel better.
In recent years, allergy drops or sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) have gained popularity in relieving allergies. This treatment is widely utilized in Europe, and the World Health Organization has endorsed it as a viable alternative to injections. Many of our patients, both adults and children, have significantly improved their symptoms with SLIT. The Allergy & Asthma Center in San Mateo offers customized allergy drops, helping people restore their well-being and quality of life.
Preparation for SLIT begins with a comprehensive medical evaluation that typically involves detailed allergy testing to identify specific sensitivities. Our doctors conduct a thorough assessment, which may include skin prick tests or blood work to precisely map the patient’s allergic profile and determine the most appropriate extracts. During the initial consultation, we review the individual’s complete medical history, current symptoms, and previous treatments to design a personalized immunotherapy approach. The customized allergy drops are formulated based on the testing results, creating a comprehensive plan for specific allergic triggers. Patients receive detailed instructions about dosage, administration, and potential initial side effects, ensuring they are fully prepared to begin their healing journey.
The incidence of significant reactions to allergy drops is very low. The most common side effects are mild itching or tingling of the mouth or tongue. Severe systemic responses to SLIT are extremely rare. With dosing adjustments, treatment usually proceeds as scheduled, without incidents or discomfort.
The extracts used in SLIT are the same FDA-approved substances utilized in injection immunotherapy. Allergy drops have not yet been officially cleared in their current form, but this should not cause concern. Off-label use of FDA-approved products is widespread in the United States. The classic example is the consumption of aspirin to prevent heart attacks, which occurred for years when the FDA had not yet approved this practice, even though it was widely known that such treatment was safe and effective. Another case is the use of seizure medications, which were proven and used off-label to prevent migraine headaches. There is frequently a long lag between finding a treatment effective and receiving an FDA approval to cure a specific medical condition.
SLIT offers a less invasive alternative to traditional allergy shots, eliminating the need for injections and frequent clinic visits. Patients can self-administer the drops at home, making the treatment process more convenient and less intimidating. This immunotherapy is particularly appealing for needle-averse individuals or those with limited access to medical facilities.
San Mateo Office
Daly City Office
Food Allergies
Insect Allergies
Environmental Allergies
Skin allergies
Other CommonAllergies
Nose & Sinus Allergies
Lifestyle Changes
First and foremost let me start by saying that these people did one hell of a job figuring out my sinus problems. When I first arrived there, I explained what was going on with me having excessive inflammation in the sinus…after they tested me, I found out that I was being exposed to dust mites which gave me a strong reaction. I followed the doctors guides lines in terms of cleaning my room and ever since, my sinus inflammation went away for good and now I have a healthy sinus. Thank you for everything.
My 10 year old son also has allergies and asthma and the staff makes sure that he feels well taken care of and comfortable, despite his having Autism and ADHD. He actually looks forward to going there with me, whether it be for my allergy shots or even when he needed allergy skin testing. When you’re a patient at the Allergy and Asthma clinic, you are treated as if you are the only patient they have, even when the waiting room is full. Dr. Engler has hired truly excellent staff, from the front desk people to the nurses and medical assistants. If you have allergies and/or asthma and you live on the Peninsula or even in the city, I highly recommend that you visit the Allergy and Asthma Clinic. They are truly amazing and will make you feel so much better.
