grass pollen sublingual immunotherapy

Grass pollen sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) is a therapeutic modality used to treat allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis induced by grass pollen. It involves the administration of standardized allergen extracts from various grass species (such as Kentucky blue grass, orchard, perennial rye, timothy, and sweet vernal grass) in the form of tablets or drops placed under the tongue. The treatment works by inducing immunotolerance through the modulation of the immune system's response to allergens. Specifically, it promotes the production of protective IgG4 antibodies and reduces the levels of allergen-specific IgE, thereby decreasing the inflammatory response upon natural exposure to grass pollen. Major products in this category include Oralair (developed by Stallergenes Greer) and Grastek/Grazax (developed by ALK-Abelló).

Brand names

OralairGrastekGrazax

Other names

Grass-SLITGrass pollen SLIT5-grass pollen sublingual immunotherapy