Allergy shots help your body get used to allergens, the things that trigger an allergic reaction. They aren’t a cure, but in time, your symptoms will get better and you may not have symptoms as often. Allergy Shots: What to Know A look at how allergy shots work and who should consider getting them. 82 /delivery/0b/2c/0b2cb0c7-d326-456d-b254-460468c0df19/wbz-allergy-shots-what-to-know_,750k,1000k,400k,.mp4 6/15/2017 2:42:00 PM 1280 720 /webmd/consumer_assets/site_images/article_thumbnails/video/wibbitz/wbz-allergy-shots-what-to-know.jpg 091e9c5e81710d0c You may want to consider allergy shots -- also called "immunotherapy"-- if you have symptoms more than 3 months a year and medicines don’t give you enough relief.

How Often Do You Get Allergy Shots? At first, you’ll go to your doctor once or twice a week for several months. You’ll get the shot in your upper arm. It'll contain a tiny amount of the thing you’re allergic to -- pollen, pet dander, mold, dust mites, or bee venom, for example. The dose will go up gradually until you get to what’s called a maintenance dose. After that, you’ll usually get a shot every 2-4 weeks for 4-5 months. Then your doctor will gradually increase the time between shots until you’re getting them about once a month for 3-5 years. During that time, your allergy symptoms will get better and may even go away. If your symptoms don’t improve after a year of shots, talk with your doctor about other treatment options.

How Should I Prepare for Allergy Shots? You may want to avoid exercise or doing anything strenuous for 2 hours before and after your appointment. That’s because exercise boosts blood flow to the tissues and may cause the allergens to spread throughout your body faster. It’s not likely to cause a serious problem, but it’s best to be safe. Tell your doctor about any other medicines or herbs and supplements you take. Some medications interfere with the treatment or raise the risk of side effects. You may need to stop allergy shots if you take these medications. If you’re pregnant or planning to get pregnant, ask your doctor whether you should continue to get allergy shots.