Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy) Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Allergy Testing + First Year Shots | $1,500 – $4,000 | $300 – $1,000 |
| Annual Maintenance Shots | $800 – $2,000 | $200 – $600 |
| Sublingual Immunotherapy (Drops/Tablets) | $1,000 – $3,000 | $300 – $800 |
CPT/ADA Code: 95165
What Affects the Cost
- Brand-name vs. generic availability
- Insurance formulary tier placement
- Pharmacy choice (retail vs. mail-order vs. Costco)
- Manufacturer savings cards and coupons
- Dosage and quantity prescribed
- Geographic location
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Covered by most plans — includes build-up and maintenance phases over 3-5 years
Most insurance plans use a tiered formulary: Tier 1 (generic) $0-$15 copay, Tier 2 (preferred brand) $25-$75, Tier 3 (non-preferred brand) $50-$150, Tier 4 (specialty) $100-$500+. Prior authorization may be required for certain medications. Step therapy may require trying cheaper alternatives first.
How to Save Money
- Always ask for generic when available — saves 50-90%
- Use GoodRx, RxSaver, or similar discount cards
- Costco pharmacy is open to non-members and often has lowest prices
- Mark Cuban's Cost Plus Drugs offers transparent low pricing
- Manufacturer patient assistance programs provide free medication to qualifying patients
- HSA/FSA funds can cover medication costs tax-free
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Allergy shots cost $1,000 to $4,000 for the first year including testing, and $800-$2,000 per year for maintenance.
Allergy shots are typically given for 3-5 years. The build-up phase lasts 6-12 months with weekly shots, then monthly maintenance.
Yes, allergy shots are covered by most insurance plans. You pay copays for each visit (typically weekly during build-up, monthly during maintenance).