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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Non-Standardized Pollen Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is a non-standardized allergenic extract used for the diagnosis and treatment of type I hypersensitivity to Palmer Amaranth. It is primarily utilized in skin testing and subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT).
Name
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen
Raw Name
AMARANTHUS PALMERI POLLEN
Category
Non-Standardized Pollen Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Drug Count
24
Variant Count
26
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is a non-standardized allergenic extract used for the diagnosis and treatment of type I hypersensitivity to Palmer Amaranth. It is primarily utilized in skin testing and subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT).
Detailed information about Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen
References used for this content
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen, commonly known as Palmer Amaranth or Carelessweed pollen, is a biological substance used in clinical allergology. It belongs to a class of drugs called Non-Standardized Pollen Allergenic Extracts [EPC]. These extracts are prepared from the pollen of the Amaranthus palmeri plant, a prolific and aggressive weed native to the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico, though it has expanded significantly across North America. In a clinical context, this extract is utilized by allergists to identify specific IgE-mediated sensitivities (allergies) and to desensitize patients through allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots).
Pharmacologically, Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is classified as a biological allergen. Unlike 'standardized' extracts (such as those for ragweed or grass), 'non-standardized' extracts do not have a federally mandated potency test to ensure uniform biological activity across different lots. Instead, they are typically manufactured based on weight/volume (w/v) or Protein Nitrogen Unit (PNU) concentrations. The FDA has regulated allergenic extracts under the Public Health Service Act of 1944 and the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, ensuring that manufacturing facilities meet stringent Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards, even if the individual extract potency varies between manufacturers.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen works through two distinct clinical pathways: diagnostic and therapeutic. At the molecular level, the pollen contains specific proteins (allergens) that are recognized by the immune systems of sensitized individuals.
In the diagnostic phase (skin testing), a small amount of the extract is introduced into the epidermis (prick test) or dermis (intradermal test). If the patient has pre-existing IgE antibodies specific to Amaranthus palmeri proteins, these antibodies—which are bound to mast cells in the skin—will cross-link upon contact with the allergen. This triggers the degranulation of mast cells, releasing histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins. The clinical result is a 'wheal and flare' reaction (a raised bump and surrounding redness), which confirms the patient's sensitivity.
In the therapeutic phase (immunotherapy), the extract is administered via subcutaneous injection in gradually increasing doses. This process, known as desensitization or hyposensitization, aims to shift the immune response from a Th2-dominated profile (allergic) to a Th1-dominated or T-regulatory (Treg) profile. Over time, this leads to the production of 'blocking antibodies' (IgG4), a decrease in specific IgE levels, and a reduction in the recruitment of inflammatory cells (eosinophils and basophils) to the respiratory mucosa. Essentially, it 'trains' the immune system to tolerate the pollen rather than overreacting to it.
The pharmacokinetics of allergenic extracts like Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen differ significantly from traditional small-molecule drugs.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen extracts are FDA-indicated for the following:
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is available in several liquid forms for parenteral (non-oral) use:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is right for your specific condition. Immunotherapy should only be administered in a clinical setting equipped to handle emergency allergic reactions.
Dosage for Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is highly individualized and must be determined by an allergist based on the patient's sensitivity level. There is no 'standard' dose for all patients.
Immunotherapy is divided into two phases:
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen extracts are generally considered safe for use in children, though the decision to start immunotherapy in very young children (under age 5) requires careful consideration of the child's ability to cooperate with the procedure and communicate symptoms of a systemic reaction. The dosing schedule for children is typically the same as for adults, though the starting dose may be more conservative depending on the child's sensitivity.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for patients with renal impairment, as the protein components are naturally degraded by proteases. However, if a patient is on medications for kidney-related hypertension (like ACE inhibitors), caution is advised due to increased anaphylaxis risk.
No dosage adjustments are necessary for hepatic impairment, as the liver's CYP450 system is not involved in the clearance of allergenic proteins.
Elderly patients (over 65) should be evaluated for cardiovascular health before starting immunotherapy. If an elderly patient has significant heart disease, they may be at higher risk of complications if they experience a systemic reaction (anaphylaxis) and require epinephrine.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is never self-administered by the patient at home. It must be administered by a healthcare professional in a medical facility.
If a dose is missed during the build-up phase, the next dose may need to be reduced to ensure safety.
An 'overdose' in the context of immunotherapy refers to an injection of a dose higher than the patient's current tolerance level. This can lead to a systemic allergic reaction or anaphylaxis.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not attempt to accelerate the build-up schedule, as this significantly increases the risk of life-threatening reactions.
Most patients receiving Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen immunotherapy will experience some form of local reaction. These are generally not dangerous but can be uncomfortable.
> Warning: Stop taking Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen and call your doctor immediately or seek emergency care if you experience any of these symptoms of anaphylaxis.
There are no known long-term 'toxic' effects of Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen on the organs (like the liver or kidneys). The primary long-term risk is the development of a persistent 'large local reaction' or the rare possibility of developing an autoimmune-like condition, though clinical evidence for the latter is extremely weak and not widely accepted in the medical community. Most patients find that after 3-5 years of treatment, the 'side effect' is actually a long-term benefit: a permanent reduction in allergy symptoms.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen extracts carry a standard FDA-mandated warning for all allergenic extracts regarding the risk of severe systemic reactions.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider, even if they occur several hours after you have left the clinic.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is a potent biological agent. Its use is restricted to diagnostic and therapeutic purposes under the direct supervision of a board-certified allergist or immunologist. The most critical safety concern is the unpredictable nature of systemic allergic reactions, which can occur even in patients who have tolerated previous injections without issue.
No FDA black box warnings for Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen specifically, but it falls under the general class warning for Allergenic Extracts. The warning emphasizes that these extracts can cause severe anaphylaxis. It mandates that the product be used only by physicians prepared to manage life-threatening emergencies and that patients with severe, poorly controlled asthma should not receive immunotherapy due to the high risk of fatal bronchospasm.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen itself does not cause sedation. However, if a patient experiences a systemic reaction or is given antihistamines to treat a local reaction, their ability to drive may be impaired. Patients should not drive if they feel lightheaded or 'off' after an injection.
There is no direct chemical interaction between alcohol and the pollen extract. However, alcohol consumption can cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which may theoretically increase the rate of allergen absorption and the severity of an allergic reaction. It is best to avoid alcohol on the day of an injection.
Immunotherapy can be stopped at any time without 'withdrawal' symptoms. However, stopping prematurely (before 3 years) often results in the return of allergy symptoms. If a patient experiences a near-fatal reaction, the physician will usually discontinue the treatment permanently.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen. Ensure your doctor knows if you have any heart conditions or lung diseases.
There are no direct food interactions with Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen. However, patients with 'Oral Allergy Syndrome' (OAS) may experience cross-reactivity. People allergic to Amaranth pollen may occasionally experience itching in the mouth when eating related grains or certain vegetables, though this is less common than with birch or ragweed pollen.
For each major interaction, the primary mechanism is usually pharmacodynamic—meaning the drugs interfere with each other's effects on the body (especially the heart and lungs) rather than changing blood levels through the liver.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially any 'heart' or 'blood pressure' pills.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Conditions requiring a careful risk-benefit analysis include:
Patients allergic to Amaranthus palmeri often show cross-sensitivity to other members of the Amaranthaceae family and the Chenopodiaceae family. This includes:
If you are highly allergic to one of these, your doctor will use extra caution when testing or treating you with Palmer Amaranth pollen.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including your lung function and current medications, before prescribing Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is classified as Pregnancy Category C. This means there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.
It is generally considered safe to continue Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen immunotherapy while breastfeeding. The allergenic proteins and the IgG4 antibodies produced by the mother are not known to pass into breast milk in quantities that would harm the infant. In fact, some studies suggest that maternal antibodies in breast milk might have a protective effect, though this is not proven for pollen allergies.
Immunotherapy is effective in children and can prevent the 'allergic march' (the progression from hay fever to asthma).
Patients over age 65 can receive Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen, but the risks are higher.
There are no specific guidelines for renal impairment. Since these are biological proteins, the kidneys are not the primary site of 'detoxification' in the way they are for synthetic drugs. However, overall health and fluid balance should be considered if treating a systemic reaction.
Liver disease does not affect the metabolism of allergenic extracts. No dosage adjustments are required for patients with cirrhosis or other hepatic conditions.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Always inform your allergist if you become pregnant or develop new health problems during treatment.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen extract acts as an immunomodulator. The primary mechanism involves the induction of peripheral immune tolerance. Upon repeated subcutaneous exposure to the allergen, several key changes occur:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | Low (Subcutaneous absorption is slow and localized) |
| Protein Binding | N/A (Processed by immune cells) |
| Half-life | Minutes to hours (for the proteins); Years (for the immune effect) |
| Tmax | 1 - 2 hours (for systemic protein detection) |
| Metabolism | Proteolysis by tissue and plasma enzymes |
| Excretion | Renal (as small peptide fragments) |
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is a Non-Standardized Pollen Allergenic Extract. It is grouped with other weed pollens such as Ragweed, Pigweed, and Russian Thistle extracts.
Common questions about Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen extract is primarily used for the diagnosis and treatment of seasonal allergies caused by the Palmer Amaranth plant, also known as 'Carelessweed.' In the diagnostic phase, it is used in skin prick tests to confirm if a patient is sensitized to this specific pollen. In the therapeutic phase, it is used in allergen immunotherapy, commonly known as 'allergy shots,' to help the body build a tolerance to the pollen. This treatment is intended for patients who suffer from allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, or asthma that is triggered by this weed. The goal is to reduce the severity of symptoms and the need for daily allergy medications.
The most common side effects are localized reactions at the site of the injection or skin test. These typically include redness, itching, and a small raised bump or swelling, which usually resolve within 24 to 48 hours. Some patients may also experience a temporary increase in their usual allergy symptoms, such as sneezing or nasal congestion, shortly after the treatment. Large local reactions, where the swelling exceeds 5 centimeters, occur in about 5-10% of patients. While these local reactions are uncomfortable, they are not usually dangerous and can often be managed with ice packs or over-the-counter antihistamines.
It is generally advised to avoid alcohol on the days you receive an Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen injection. Alcohol can cause your blood vessels to dilate (expand), which might increase the speed at which the allergen is absorbed into your bloodstream, potentially increasing the risk or severity of an allergic reaction. Furthermore, alcohol can mask the early symptoms of a systemic reaction, such as feeling lightheaded or flushed, making it harder for you to realize you need medical help. To ensure maximum safety during your immunotherapy build-up, it is best to remain sober for at least 24 hours around your appointment time.
The safety of Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen during pregnancy depends on whether you are starting the therapy or continuing it. Doctors generally do not start new allergy shots during pregnancy because the risk of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) could cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure and oxygen for the baby. However, if you are already on a stable maintenance dose and have been tolerating the shots well, most allergists will allow you to continue the treatment. Always inform your allergist immediately if you become pregnant so they can review your dosage and ensure the highest level of safety for both you and your child.
Allergen immunotherapy is a long-term commitment and does not provide instant relief like an antihistamine pill. Most patients begin to notice a decrease in their allergy symptoms toward the end of the 'build-up' phase, which usually takes 3 to 6 months of weekly injections. Significant clinical improvement is typically seen after one full year of treatment, especially during the peak Palmer Amaranth pollination season. For the most durable and long-lasting results, a full course of treatment lasting 3 to 5 years is generally recommended by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI).
Yes, you can stop receiving Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen injections at any time without experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms, as it is not an addictive substance. However, if you stop the treatment before completing the recommended 3-to-5-year course, your allergy symptoms are very likely to return to their original severity over time. If you need to stop due to a move, financial reasons, or side effects, you should discuss this with your allergist. They may be able to adjust your schedule or help you find a new provider to ensure that the progress you have made in building tolerance is not lost.
If you miss a scheduled injection of Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen, you should contact your allergist's office as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not simply show up for your next appointment expecting the same dose. Depending on how long it has been since your last shot, your doctor may need to repeat your previous dose or even reduce the dose to ensure your safety. Missing multiple doses during the build-up phase can significantly set back your progress, as your immune system needs regular, incremental exposure to the pollen to build tolerance safely without reacting.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen extracts cause weight gain. The extract consists of natural proteins and a small amount of preservative or stabilizer, none of which have metabolic effects on body fat or appetite. If you experience weight changes while on immunotherapy, they are likely due to other factors, such as lifestyle changes, other medications (like oral steroids sometimes used for severe allergies), or unrelated medical conditions. If you have concerns about your weight, you should discuss them with your primary care physician.
Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen can be taken alongside most standard allergy medications like nasal steroids and antihistamines, which may actually help reduce the risk of local side effects. However, it can have dangerous interactions with certain blood pressure medications, specifically beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors. Beta-blockers can prevent life-saving epinephrine from working if you have a severe allergic reaction. You must provide your allergist with a complete list of all medications, including 'natural' supplements, to ensure there are no hidden risks before starting your injections.
The concept of 'generic' vs. 'brand name' is slightly different for allergenic extracts than for pills. Amaranthus Palmeri Pollen is produced by several different biological laboratories (such as Greer, HollisterStier, or ALK). While they all contain the same type of pollen proteins, they are 'non-standardized,' meaning the exact potency can vary between manufacturers. Therefore, they are not considered interchangeable in the way generic ibuprofen is for Advil. Once you start treatment with a specific manufacturer's extract, your doctor will usually try to keep you on that same brand for the duration of your therapy to maintain consistent dosing.