Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT)
Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT – Allergen Immunotherapy) is a treatment that acts on the mechanisms underlying the allergic response, altering the natural course of the disease rather than merely controlling symptoms.
The treatment involves the repeated and systematic administration of the allergens responsible for the allergic reaction, with the aim of modulating the immune system’s response – a process known as desensitisation – to the point of reducing or eliminating the symptoms caused by natural exposure to those allergens. Because of this property, AIT is considered a causal treatment for allergic conditions.
The duration of treatment recommended by international guidelines is at least 3 years, in order to maintain its effect after discontinuation.
Allergen-specific immunotherapy also appears to influence the allergic course – that is, the progression of the disease over time.
The monomeric allergoid
The carbamylated monomeric allergoid is an allergenic extract that has been chemically modified through a specific, targeted reaction directed at the ε-amino groups of certain amino acids in the native allergen, without altering its molecular size or conformational structure.
This process significantly reduces its IgE-mediated reactivity (allergenicity), which can trigger allergic reactions, whilst maintaining its ability to stimulate the immune system to induce a protective therapeutic response.
Immunotherapy with monomeric allergoids is available both sublingually (tablets and drops) and subcutaneously.
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