How Much Do Allergy Shots Cost With and Without Insurance?
Allergy shots are a long-term treatment for individuals who have chronic allergies. Allergy shots are a type of immunotherapy that uses your immune system to fight off disease. Most of the time, allergy shots are covered by health insurance, but for uninsured patients, allergy shots can range from $20-$100 per visit.
Before you decide to get allergy shots, consult with your primary care provider for a proper workup and evaluation. For as low as $25 a month, Mira can provide you with in-person and virtual consultations. Additionally, Mira offers affordable laboratory testing and prescription medications. Sign up for Mira today!
How Much Are Allergy Shots Without Insurance?
Allergy shots are usually used for building tolerance to pollen, dust, pet dander, and molds. For uninsured patients, an allergy shot will have two major costs: the allergy serum and the administration of the shot. The allergy serum will typically cost around $100, and the preparation/administration costs can range from $20-100 per visit. Since these shots are dosed weekly, the annual cost can range from $1,000 to $4,000 per year. As more time passes, the frequency of your allergy shots will decrease, and your costs will also decrease as a result.
Depending on your location and your facility, the costs of allergy shots for uninsured individuals can differ drastically. The chart below compares allergy shot prices across the U.S.
| Facility | Location | Average Out-of-Pocket Costs |
|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | $1,000-4,000 annually | |
| Allergy Associates of La Crosse | Onalaska, WI | $700-850 for the first visit, price drops for return visits |
| Cure Allergy Clinic | Arlington, TX | $610 for the first year, $300 for following years |
| West Side Head and Neck | Santa Monica, CA | $1,000-4,000 annually |
| Primer Allergist | Annapolis, MD | $598-1794 annually |
What Are Common Types of Immunotherapy?
Allergy immunotherapy can be administered via two major routes: subcutaneous (SCIT) or sublingual (SLIT). Allergy shots are administered via the SCIT route. Essentially, the serum for these shots contains trace amounts of your allergen, and as the dose gradually increases over time, your body becomes desensitized to the allergen. This allows you to develop immunity over time. However, a drawback is that allergy shots often need years before immunity is achieved.
| Type of Allergy Shot | Treatment Form | Common Allergens Treated | Administration Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT) | Injection | Pollens, Dust Mites, Molds, Pet Dander, Insect Stings | Buildup Phase: 1-3 injections per week for 3-6 months Maintenance Phase: Once every 2-4 weeks for 3-5 years |
| Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) | Tablets, Drops, Oral Sprays | Grass Pollens, Ragweed, Dust Mites (Tablets are FDA-approved for these allergens) | Daily Use: Tablet or drops placed under the tongue daily; continuous use through allergy season and possibly year-round |
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Sophie is a 2024 Pharm D. candidate studying pharmacy at Rutgers University, New Brunswick. She has a passion for healthcare and writing and hopes to make meaningful contributions to healthcare transparency and accessibility. In her free time, she likes to take care of her houseplants, cook, and hang out with her cat.