OIT takes time and commitment. There are two phases of oral immunotherapy, the build-up phase and the maintenance phase. The buildup phase starts with a “Day 1” where patients are given incremental doses of the dilute allergen. This will usually last 3-4 hours. Patients are discharged home to continue the last tolerated dose on a daily basis until their return visit in 1-2 weeks. At that time the dose will be increased under medical supervision. This phase usually lasts between 6 and12 months but can last up to 18-24 months. Once at maintenance level, patients are considered desensitized where the chance of experiencing an anaphylactic reaction is markedly reduced.