Allergy shots are a type of immunotherapy to help treat allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma. Small doses of substances (allergens) are injected under the skin. This may help your immune system reduce or eliminate sensitivity to the allergen that causes an allergic reaction.

A doctor will do skin or blood tests to find out what the person is allergic to. Allergy shots are available for some allergies to:

• Pollen (ragweed, grasses, trees).
• House dust mites and cockroaches.
• Animal dander (dogs and cats).
• Mold (fungus).
• Insect venom (wasps, bees, yellow jackets, hornets, fire ants).