Rush immunotherapy (allergy shots) is an accelerated form of traditional immunotherapy. Traditionally, allergy shots are administered in two phases: build-up and maintenance. During the build-up phase shots are given one to three times a week over a period of three to seven months. The allergen dose is progressively increased with each shot. During the maintenance phase, shots are typically given each month for three to five years, or longer.
If your doctor recommends you receive rush immunotherapy, you’ll receive six to eight months of dosage in one-day. Rush immunotherapy provides a quicker relief from allergy symptoms, reduces office visits and requires fewer shots. You’ll also be able to move into the maintenance phase sooner.
On the day of the procedure, you’ll receive increasing doses of allergen injections over a period of six to eight hours; during which you’ll be closely monitored. After you receive the injections, you’ll be allowed to go home after remaining in the clinic for one or two hours for observation.
While rush immunotherapy is associated with incidences of systemic reactions (sneezing, nasal congestion, hives, etc.), most reactions are usually mild and can be easily treated. To reduce the risk of serious allergic reactions, you must take a prescribed regimen of medications, consisting of antihistamines and corticosteroids, three days prior to receiving the shots.
Over the next six to eight weeks, you’ll receive injections less frequently, until you need a shot about once every three or four weeks.