Drug Detail:Ragweed pollen allergen extract (Ragweed pollen allergen extract [ rag-weed-paw-len-al-er-gen-ex-tract ])
Drug Class: Allergenics
Usual Adult Dose for Allergic Rhinitis
One tablet sublingually once a day.
Comments:
- Initiate treatment at least 12 weeks before the expected onset of each ragweed pollen season and continue treatment throughout the season.
Use: Treatment of short ragweed pollen-induced allergic rhinitis, with or without conjunctivitis, confirmed by positive skin test or in vitro testing for pollen-specific IgE antibodies for short ragweed pollen.
Renal Dose Adjustments
Data not available
Liver Dose Adjustments
Data not available
Precautions
US BOXED WARNING:
- Short ragweed allergen can cause life-threatening allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis and severe laryngopharyngeal restriction.
- Do not administer short ragweed allergen to patients with severe, unstable or uncontrolled asthma.
- Observe patients in the office for at least 30 minutes following the initial dose.
- Prescribe auto-injectable epinephrine, instruct and train patients on its appropriate use, and instruct patients to seek immediate medical care upon its use.
- May not be suitable for patients with certain underlying medical conditions that may reduce their ability to survive a serious allergic reaction.
- May not be suitable for patients who may be unresponsive to epinephrine or inhaled bronchodilators, such as those taking beta-blockers.
Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.
Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.
Dialysis
Data not available
Other Comments
Administration advice:
- Administer the first dose in a healthcare setting under the supervision of a physician with experience in the field.
- After receiving the first dose, observe the patient for at least 30 minutes to monitor for signs or symptoms of a severe systemic or a severe local allergic reaction.
- Allow the tablet to remain under the tongue until completely dissolved. Do not swallow for at least 1 minute.
- Wash hands after handling the tablet.
- Do not take the tablet with food or beverage. Food or beverage should not be taken for at least 5 minutes after taking the tablet.
- Prescribe auto-injectable epinephrine to patients and instruct them in the proper use of emergency self-injection of epinephrine.
Storage requirements:
- Protect from moisture