The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers who want to try the new under-the-tongue allergy medications approved last month that they must take the first dose under medical supervision.
Grastek, Oralair and Ragwitek all got the green light from the FDA in April. Because under-the-tongue pills can cause serious allergic reactions, patients are required to take the first dose at a doctor's office or in the presence of other medical providers. Subsequent daily doses can be taken at home. The FDA says it is also requiring medical professionals to prescribe each patient an autoinjectable epinephrine device, commonly known as an EpiPen, in case of severe reactions. Patients should particularly beware of symptoms like swelling and difficulty breathing.
All three medications work similarly to allergy shots by desensitizing the body to small amounts of allergens over time. Unlike allergy shots, the pills can be taken at home for greater convenience. Under-the-tongue immunotherapy must begin three to four months before allergy season starts to be effective. The pills do not provide immediate relief for allergy symptoms.
FDA allergist Jay Slater says that while Grastek, Oralair and Ragwitek are great options for some allergy sufferers, they don't yet provide as much treatment versatility as traditional allergy shots.
"With injection immunotherapy, health care providers have more flexibility in terms of treating patients who may have multiple allergies or allergies not covered by sublingual products," Slater said in a news release.
Seasonal allergy sufferers who are interested in under-the-tongue allergy immunotherapy should talk with their physicians. In addition to medication, consider investing in household allergy control products that can dramatically improve symptoms. Check out the Allergy Be Gone website today to view our selection of allergy bedding, cleaning supplies and air filtration systems!
