Cluster Immunotherapy

  • Have you wanted to do allergy shots but don’t have the time?

    Cluster allergy shots is another option to consider.  Conventional allergy shots require at least 27 doses (1-2 times/ week) during the build up phase.  On the other hand cluster immunotherapy offers a more rapid buildup. During the first 3 visits, 4 injections are given from each treatment set so the patient is in the office for 2.5-3 hours. A lot of allergy medications are given in order to allow the dose to be advanced more rapidly.  The patient then continues conventional buildup for 8 more visits. 

 

  •  

    Conventional shots

    Cluster rapid build up

    Total shots during build up

    27-33

    11

    Length of visits

    All visits 30 minute wait

    First 3 visits—2.5-3 hours
    Next 8 visits—30 minute wait

    Cost
    (depends on the # of extracts)

    $1500-2400

    $3300-4000

    Risk of reaction

    8-28%

    0-33% with premedication

    Pre-medications

    antihistamines

    First 3 visits—antihistamines, zantac, singulair and prednisone

     

  • If you are interested in cluster immunotherapy, you should contact our billing department, (509) 747-1624 ext. 125 to discuss the cost.  Billing for cluster build up is different than conventional immunotherapy.  Out of pocket cost for the patient depends on their insurance coverage. 

    Once maintenance has been reached using conventional or cluster buildup, doses are continued every 4 weeks for 3-5 years.