Standardized Cat Hair

What is this medication? Standardized cat hair is a prescription allergen extract used primarily for the diagnosis and treatment of allergic reactions triggered by exposure to cats. It is typically administered through subcutaneous injections, commonly known as allergy shots, to patients who suffer from symptoms such as allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, or asthma when they are around feline dander. By introducing controlled amounts of the allergen into the body, the medication helps the immune system become less sensitive over time. The primary goal of using this medication is to provide long-term relief by modifying the underlying allergic disease rather than just masking the symptoms. As the dosage is gradually increased during the build-up phase of immunotherapy, the patient's body learns to tolerate the cat proteins more effectively. This can lead to a significant reduction in the severity of allergic attacks and may eventually decrease the need for daily antihistamines or nasal steroids.