What is immunotherapy (desensitising therapy)?

Specific allergen immunotherapy (desensitisation) is an effective treatment for allergic rhinitis in some people and can achieve lasting relief from symptoms. Over time, it reduces the immune system’s tendency to overreact to an allergen.

Immunotherapy may be considered if your allergic rhinitis is mainly due to one allergen that you cannot avoid. To find out if this treatment option might work for you, you need to be referred to a specialist allergist.  

Oral and injectable forms of immunotherapy are available in Australia. Injectable immunotherapy, which is by far the more common form, involves weekly to monthly injections over 2–3 years. Side effects can occur, including serious allergic reactions. It is not safe for people with severe or poorly controlled asthma. Oral immunotherapy involves daily treatment at home, and is expensive.