Safety evaluation of rapid build-up schedules with IR-standardized allergen extracts for subcutaneous immunotherapy of allergic respiratory diseases

Abstract

Introduction: The conventional schedule used in specific subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) is a slow treatment that often leads to poor compliance or discontinuation of treatment. These disadvantages have led to design administration schedules that shorten the build-up phase without increasing the adverse reactions rate.

Areas covered: This report reviews the available scientific documentation of the safety profile of build-up schedules for SCIT with Alustal Rapid® (a suspension of standardized allergen extracts adsorbed on aluminum hydroxide gel for specific immunotherapy) in the treatment of IgE-mediated rhinitis, conjunctivitis and bronchial asthma to inhaled allergens.

Expert opinion: Cluster and shortened conventional schedules may offer a safe method of SCIT for the treatment of respiratory allergy and reduce the inconvenience associated with conventional schedules by reaching the maintenance dose in less time and with fewer visits; thereby this method could reduce discontinuation rates and increase compliance.

Keywords:

• allergic rhinitis
• allergy
• asthma
• cluster schedules
• conventional schedules
• immunotherapy
• subcutaneous immunotherapy

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank M Muñoz-Tudurí (TFS Develop) for her assistance in the manuscript preparation.