'Breakthrough' for hay fever sufferers through new NHS drug
Hay fever is a common allergy that causes sneezing, coughing and itchy eyes.
You cannot cure it, but there are things you can do to help your symptoms, or medicines you can take to help.
But if you've clicked on this article, you probably didn't need us to tell you that.
I'm not being dramatic but i might be the first person to die from hayfever.
— Sheena (@sarky_sheena) July 20, 2025
The new under-the-tongue immunotherapy tablet works by training the immune system to tolerate tree pollen over three years of daily use.
The drug, called Betula verrusca and sold under the brand name Itulazax 12 SQ-Bet, has been recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as a hay fever treatment on the NHS.
NICE estimates that around 27,000 people in England will benefit from the treatment, which is recommended for people whose hay fever symptoms persist even after taking antihistamines or using nasal sprays.
Helen Knight, director of medicines evaluation at NICE, said: "This treatment will help improve people's quality of life.
"Severe tree pollen allergies trap people indoors during beautiful weather and disrupt their work, education and family life.
"The daily tablet offers genuine long-term relief rather than just managing symptoms."
Symptoms are usually worse between late March and September, especially when it's warm, humid and windy. This is when the pollen count is at its highest.
Hay fever can last for weeks or months, unlike a cold, which usually goes away after 1 to 2 weeks.
Amena Warner, head of clinical services at Allergy UK, said: "Many people don't realise how awful it is having an itchy, runny nose, sneezing episodes or itchy, irritated eyes in the pollen season.
"We frequently hear from people who avoid time outdoors, keep doors and windows shut, check pollen counts and try and minimise any exposure, which takes a significant toll on their physical and emotional wellbeing.
"NICE's recommendation is so important because it provides a genuine opportunity for people to manage the root cause of their pollen allergy, offering the chance to break free from this burden and enjoy a better quality of life."
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