The average annual cost of allergy shots without insurance is about $4000. It can be higher depending on the clinic, location, and treatment plan. The cost of allergy shots with insurance is lower, depending on whether you have met your deductible and your coinsurance plan.

What Are Allergy Shots?

Allergy shots are a long-term immunotherapy treatment for chronic allergies that help you build long-term immunity against common allergens like pollen, pet dander, dust, and mold.

These treatments work like vaccines to reduce allergy sensitivity. (1) Each allergy shot contains trace amounts of the substances (allergens) that can trigger an allergic reaction. However, the amount in these shots will not cause a full-blown allergic reaction; they are just enough to activate your immune system. 

Allergy shots are often administered  in two phases:

• Build-up phase: In this phase, you will start with allergy injections with low dose of allergens, which will be increased gradually over time. You will be administered allergy injections about once or twice a week for about 3 to 9 months, depending on your treatment plan. 

• Maintenance phase: This phase begins once you reach your “effective dose”. This dose is based on how you respond to the buildup phase and your level of allergen sensitivity. The maintenance typically continues for around three more years (it could be longer if your allergists advise so). 

Allergy shots are highly effective because they address the root cause of your allergies rather than temporarily masking symptoms. (2)

Allergy Shots Cost With Insurance

The cost of an allergy shot with insurance is about $100 per dose, and the cost of administering a dose typically ranges from $20 to $100.

However, the exact amount will vary depending on your insurance plan and whether you have met your deductible.

Even once you’ve met your deductible, you’ll likely still be responsible for a copay (typically up to $20) for each office visit.

There are other hidden costs associated with allergy shots you should consider, as they might add up over the course of treatment. These include:

• Initial allergy testing (Sometimes covered by insurance, but copay and coinsurance still apply)

• Transportation to and from the clinic

• Time away from work

Allergy Shots Cost Without Insurance

The annual cost of allergy shots insurance can range from $1,000 to $4,000 or even more.

The exact amount will depend on your location, frequency, and length of treatment plans, and the amount of serum you require. You will also have to cover the cost of the administration of the dose. 

The good part is, as your immune system is gradually desensitized to your allergy triggers, you won’t have to go to the doctor’s office for shots as often. Once you reach this point (for most people, this takes 3 to 6 months), your annual spending on allergy shots will likely decrease.

Many allergists offer a discount for cash payments and payment plans for patients who are uninsured or underinsured. If you’re looking to save on your allergy treatment, speak with your medical provider about payment plan options for allergy shot.

Here are a few pros and cons to consider when it comes to allergy shots:

Allergy Shot Alternatives

Despite these expenses, allergy shots can be more cost-effective than continuing to treat your allergies with over-the-counter (OTC) medications. 

However, other alternative treatments like Quello allergy drops—which come with a free at-home test kit—might just be the most affordable and convenient way to overcome your allergies for good.

That said, here are several alternative allergy treatments that your allergy specialist may recommend to help ease frustration symptoms like congestion, runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing:

Over-the-Counter Medications

Common over-the-counter (OTC) allergy medications, including Benadryl, Claritin, Allegra, and Zyrtec, help ease and treat allergy symptoms like congestion, runny nose, and sneezing. 

OTC allergy medications typically take a few days to some weeks to work. You also have to take some (antihistamines) daily for them to be effective. (3) Others, such as nasal decongestants, should not be taken for more than three days, as your symptoms may worsen. 

Read more about how long OTC allergy medications take to work and any side effects here. 

Prescription Medications

If your allergy symptoms aren’t responding to OTC allergy medication or your symptoms affect your daily activities, your medical provider may recommend prescription medications like steroids, mast cell stabilizers, or leukotriene modifiers. 

Nasal Irrigation

Nasal irrigation, also known as sinus rinsing, helps alleviate allergy symptoms by flushing out allergens and excess mucus in your sinus passages with a saltwater or saline solution. Make sure you rinse with only sterile, distilled, or previously boiled water.  (4)

You can also use nasal irrigation devices such as a neti pot and battery-operated pulsed water devices, but ensure you clean them before use to prevent infection.

Allergy Drops (Sublingual Immunotherapy)

If keeping up with daily allergy medications isn’t working for you or you don't like injections, allergy drops might be a suitable alternative.

Allergy drops work just like allergy shots. However, instead of getting needled at a doctor’s office, you’ll simply take your customized allergy drops at home by placing a few drops under your tongue each day. 

Just like allergy shots, allergy drops expose your immune system to your specific triggers, gradually desensitizing your body’s response to these intruders and alleviating your allergy symptoms. (5)

Some benefits of allergy drops:

• Convenience: Quello allergy drops are super convenient because you take them at home. Not only is this a more comfortable experience overall, but you also don’t have to spend extra time driving to a doctor’s office, sitting in a waiting room, and getting multiple shots each week.

• Safety: Providers like Quello use a single-prick, at-home allergy test to determine your allergens. Tests administered in clinics often use multiple pricks, which can cause your symptoms to flare.

• Expert support: Quello offers 24/7 online support, no appointment necessary. 

Cost of Allergy Drops

The average cost of allergy drops without insurance is between $1,000 and $1,200 per year. This cost may vary depending on location, clinic pricing, the number of allergens being treated, and any additional fees. 

The cost of allergy drops is usually higher in the first month, as it typically includes initial consultation fees and a custom formulation. After the initial payment, the cost of refills and follow-up appointments is usually lower. 

Many health insurance plans don’t typically cover allergy drops. However, if you have a health savings or flexible spending account, you can use it to pay for your allergy drops tax-free.  There are also discounts available when you commit to a certain number of months. Speak with our allergists to learn what options are available to you. 

Enjoy Shot-Free Allergy Relief With Quello

Quello allergy drops are a convenient, more cost-effective alternative to allergy shots if you want a needle-free experience and spend less time commuting to the doctor's office. 

Ready to get expert-backed allergy relief solutions from the comfort of your home? Take our free tests to get started. 

Start overcoming your allergies.

Get our free allergy test kit

FAQs

Does insurance cover allergy shots?

Most health insurance companies, as well as Medicare and most Medicare Advantage plans, do cover part of the costs associated with allergy shots, including the serum and office visit fees. However, most insurance companies will charge a copay per shot.

How frequently do you need allergy shots?

The frequency of your allergy shots will vary depending on your specific treatment plan. However, most people receive allergy shots once or twice per week for the first 6 to 9 months. Over time, you will need only one or two injections per month.

Are allergy drops the same as allergy shots?

Not exactly. Both allergy shots and allergy drops are effective in training your immune system to respond better to allergens and in reducing allergy symptoms. However, the difference is how they are given; shots are administered as an injection in the clinic, while drops are placed under your tongue and can be taken at home.