Immunotherapy for Wasp Venom Allergy

Anyone who has already had a severe allergic reaction to a wasp or bee sting often wonders how to reduce the risk in future. One possible option is venom immunotherapy. This article gives an overview and is no substitute for medical advice.

What venom immunotherapy is

In venom immunotherapy, also known as specific immunotherapy, a small amount of the allergen — here wasp or bee venom — is administered to the body in increasing doses over an extended period. The aim is for the immune system to become accustomed to it and to react less strongly, or no longer excessively, to a future sting. The treatment is carried out exclusively by an allergist.

Who it is an option for

The prerequisite is a medically confirmed insect venom allergy, usually following a reaction that went beyond normal local swelling. You can read more about the warning signs and diagnosis in our guide «Recognising an insect venom allergy». Whether venom immunotherapy makes sense in a particular case is decided by the treating specialist on the basis of the individual medical history.

How the treatment works

The usual approach is a build-up phase in which the dose is increased step by step, followed by a maintenance phase lasting several years with injections at longer intervals. The treatment as a whole usually extends over several years and is carried out under medical supervision, since a reaction can occur during or shortly after the injections themselves. For this reason the appointments normally take place in a practice or clinic where immediate help is available if needed.

Important to know

Venom immunotherapy significantly reduces the risk of a severe reaction, but it offers no hundred per cent guarantee. Even after successful treatment it therefore remains sensible to be careful around wasps and bees. People with a known insect venom allergy should therefore continue to carry an emergency kit prescribed by their doctor and know how to react in an emergency; see «Anaphylactic shock: first aid» on this. General information on what to do after a sting can be found in our pillar guide «Wasp sting — what to do?».