Is the Cost of Allergy Immunotherapy Worth It? Here’s What You Should Know

By Your Health Magazine

If you suffer from seasonal allergies, pet dander, or dust mites, chances are you’ve tried every over-the-counter solution you can find: antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays. While these options may offer temporary relief, they often don’t address the root of the problem.

Allergy immunotherapy (AIT) is different. It’s a long-term treatment that can reduce or eliminate allergy symptoms altogether. But what about the cost of allergy immunotherapy? Is it worth it? Here’s what you need to know so you can decide what makes the most sense for your health( and your wallet).

What is Allergy Immunotherapy?

Allergy immunotherapy is a treatment designed to retrain your immune system. Instead of just managing symptoms, it helps your body build tolerance to the allergens that trigger your reactions. Over time, this can reduce or even eliminate your allergic responses.

There are two main types of allergy immunotherapy:

Allergy shots (subcutaneous immunotherapy or SCIT): Administered in a doctor’s office, usually over a 3–5 year period.
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT): Taken as tablets or drops under the tongue, often daily, and typically done at home.

While the methods of administration vary between the two, both methods have been proven effective by numerous clinical studies.

How Much Does Allergy Immunotherapy Cost?

Here’s where things can get tricky. The cost of allergy immunotherapy can vary based on your treatment plan, insurance coverage, and location. But here’s a general idea of what to expect with the two main types of treatment.

Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT)

Allergy shots are typically administered in a medical setting over a course of several years. They involve an initial build-up phase with frequent visits, followed by a maintenance phase that requires less frequent dosing, but still adds up over time.

Initial testing: $200–$1,000 for skin or blood tests.
Build-up phase (weekly shots for 3–6 months): $20–$100 per shot.
Maintenance phase (monthly shots for 3–5 years): $100–$300/month.
Total estimated cost: $1,000–$4,000 per year, sometimes more.

Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)

SLIT is a more convenient option that allows patients to take tablets or drops at home, usually on a daily basis. While it may be less time-intensive, the costs can still be significant, especially if insurance doesn’t cover it.

Initial testing: Similar to SCIT.
Prescription tablets/drops: $100–$300/month.
Total estimated cost: $1,200–$3,600 per year.

Comparing Costs: Immunotherapy vs. Symptom Management

If immunotherapy seems expensive upfront, consider this: untreated allergies often lead to ongoing costs like:

Repeated doctor visits
Over-the-counter or prescription medications
Missed work or school days
Sleep disturbances
Secondary infections like sinusitis or ear infections

It adds up. For example, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), caring for children with food allergies costs approximately $25 billion per year, whereas nasal allergies cost between $3 and $4 billion each year.

While immunotherapy is an investment, it can actually save you money over time by reducing your dependence on medications and doctor visits.

Is It Worth It?

So, how do you know if the financial investment makes sense for you? The answer to this question depends entirely on you, but for many, the cost of allergy immunotherapy is well worth the results. When you pay for allergy immunotherapy, you’re getting:

Long-term relief: Many patients report 80–90% improvement in symptoms after completing a full course of treatment.
Reduced medication use: You may not need daily allergy medicine, which adds up over time.
Improved quality of life: Less sneezing, wheezing, and itchy eyes—and more restful sleep and productivity.

Once you’re finished with your AIT regimen, which usually takes between three and five years, you may find that the benefits continue to persist, even though you’re not actively taking small doses of the allergen anymore.

How to Make Allergy Immunotherapy More Affordable

The cost of allergy immunotherapy can be steep, especially if you’re treating yourself and several of your family members. Thankfully, there are several ways to keep costs more affordable:

Check your insurance plan: Many plans cover SCIT when administered by an allergist. Coverage for SLIT (allergy drops) is less consistent.
Use an FSA or HSA: Allergy immunotherapy is a qualified medical expense.
Ask about generic SLIT options: Though not always FDA-approved in the U.S., compounded drops may be available through your allergist.

Who Should Consider Allergy Immunotherapy?

Immunotherapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all treatment, but it can be a good fit if:

Your allergies last more than 3 months per year
Medications don’t provide enough relief
You want a long-term solution, not just symptom control
You have allergic asthma triggered by environmental allergens

If you think AIT might be a good fit for you, chat with your allergist. They can help you determine whether you’re a good candidate for the treatment and, if so, find a treatment plan that fits your needs.

Making the Investment in Long-Term Relief

While allergy immunotherapy costs may seem high initially, it often pays off when you factor in long-term health benefits and reduced reliance on daily medications. Whether you choose allergy shots or sublingual tablets, the right treatment can dramatically improve your quality of life.

Of course, as with any change in your medical care, it’s important to talk to your allergist or primary care physician (PCP) before starting. They can evaluate your allergy, medical history, and needs to determine what’s best for your situation.