Allergen immunotherapy for respiratory allergy: to what extent can the risk of systemic reactions be reduced?. Issue 7 (2nd July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Incorvaia, Cristoforo; Pucciarini, Francesco; Makri, Eleni; Gritti, Bruna L; Ridolo, Erminia
• Is Part Of: Expert opinion on drug safety. Volume 19:Issue 7(2020)
• Page Start: 843
• Page End: 848
• Publication Date: 2020-07-02
• Subjects: Allergen immunotherapy -- subcutaneous route -- sublingual route -- safety -- respiratory allergy; Drugs -- Side effects -- Periodicals; Drugs -- Toxicology -- Periodicals; Chemotherapy -- Periodicals; 615.704
• DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2020.1773788
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1474-0338

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Introduction: Allergen immunotherapy is an effective treatment for respiratory allergy, but the administration to patients of extracts of the causative allergen may elicit systemic reactions, which include, particularly with subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), anaphylaxis. In the past, the occurrence (tough rare) of fatal reactions has represented a serious problem that has limited the prescription of SCIT. Areas covered: The authors analyzed in this review the safety data of SCIT, especially concerning the years following the identification of uncontrolled asthma at the moment of allergen injection as the major risk of life-threatening reactions and fatalities. The safety of SLIT, which is far better than SCIT, was analyzed and its specific risk factors for systemic reactions were highlighted. Expert opinion: Presently, the safety profile of SCIT and SLIT is satisfactory, provided the treatment is administered by physicians experienced in this treatment, who are aware of the known risk factors for severe reactions and who implement all measures to avoid them. For SLIT, which is self-administered by the patient, receiving the first dose under medical control is recommended.