The Treatment Spectrum
Allergy treatment ranges from over-the-counter antihistamines to prescription biologics and definitive allergen immunotherapy. The appropriate treatment depends on allergen type, severity, and patient health history.
First-Line Pharmacotherapy
The antihistamines comparison guide explains the difference between first- and second-generation options. For nasal allergies, our nasal corticosteroid spray guide details why these are now recommended as first-line over antihistamines by major allergy societies.
Immunotherapy: Disease Modification
Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is the only treatment that modifies the underlying allergic disease rather than just treating symptoms. It can be delivered via subcutaneous injections (SCIT), sublingual drops/tablets (SLIT), or through oral immunotherapy (OIT) for food allergies.
| Treatment Category | Examples | Modifies Disease? |
|---|---|---|
| OTC Antihistamines | Cetirizine, Loratadine | No |
| Nasal Steroids | Fluticasone, Mometasone | No |
| Biologics | Omalizumab (Xolair), Dupilumab | Partial |
| Immunotherapy (AIT) | SCIT, SLIT, OIT | Yes |