Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 15, 2026

Intralymphatic Immunotherapy and Vaccination in Mice
Published on: February 2, 2014
Maintenance venom immunotherapy administered at a 3-month interval preserves safety and efficacy and improves
E Cavallucci1, S Ramondo, A Renzetti
1Allergy Related Disease Unit, G d'Annunzio University Foundation, Chieti, Italy.
Background:
Hymenoptera venom immunotherapy (VIT) is a safe and effective approach to insect sting allergy. However, after discontinuation, relapses can occur in some patients, especially those with a high occupational risk, and they may need to prolong VIT indefinitely. In order to improve adherence, we propose extending the interval between injections of maintenance VIT (MVIT).
Objective:
To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and patient acceptance of a 3-month interval between MVIT injections in a group of Hymenoptera-allergic patients who are occupationally exposed to insect stings.
Patients And Methods:
We included 72 patients with severe systemic reactions to Hymenoptera stings. MVIT was administered for 4 years at intervals increasing up to 3 months and then continued for a further 2 years. Patients were informed of the risk of relapse after discontinuation and of the need for indefinite treatment at 3-month intervals.
Results:
During the 3-month interval maintenance phase, only 235 local reactions (17.8%) were observed in 17 patients. Sixty patients experienced 125 field re-stings and only 1 experienced a systemic reaction with generalized urticaria.
Conclusions:
The study confirms that the conventional MVIT interval of 4 to 6 weeks can be extended to 3 months in most patients with no adverse events, while maintaining safety and efficacy, improving adherence, and guaranteeing safe continuation of professional activity.
Related Concept Videos
Myocarditis III: Medical Management
Myocarditis IV: Nursing Management
Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...
Drug Accumulation During Multiple Dosing: Intermittent IV Infusions
Pericarditis III: Medical Management
Dosage Regimen: Fixed Dose
Fixed-dose regimens can be used for various routes of administration, including intravenous (IV) injections and oral medications. For IV administration, a predetermined amount of the drug is...