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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is a non-standardized biological extract derived from bovine sources, primarily used as an allergenic extract or in glandular therapy, containing hormones like vasopressin and oxytocin.
Name
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior
Raw Name
BOS TAURUS PITUITARY GLAND, POSTERIOR
Category
Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Drug Count
55
Variant Count
55
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is a non-standardized biological extract derived from bovine sources, primarily used as an allergenic extract or in glandular therapy, containing hormones like vasopressin and oxytocin.
Detailed information about Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior.
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior refers to a biological medicinal product derived from the posterior lobe (neurohypophysis) of the pituitary gland of cattle (Bos taurus). This substance is classified by the FDA as a Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract [EPC], though it historically belongs to a broader category of glandular extracts used in organotherapy. In clinical practice, this extract is primarily utilized in the diagnostic testing and treatment of specific allergies or as a component in complex homeopathic and supplemental regimens intended to support endocrine function.
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior contains two primary active peptide hormones: Vasopressin (also known as Antidiuretic Hormone or ADH) and Oxytocin. Because it is a 'non-standardized' extract, the exact concentrations of these hormones can vary significantly between batches. This lack of standardization distinguishes it from purified, synthetic versions of these hormones (like Pitocin or Vasostrict). According to the FDA-approved labeling for allergenic extracts, these products are intended for use by clinicians trained in allergy and immunology to identify hypersensitivity reactions or to induce desensitization.
The mechanism of action for Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is multifaceted, reflecting the biological complexity of the neurohypophysis. At the molecular level, the extract functions through the activity of its constituent hormones on specific G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs):
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is available in several specialized forms, depending on the intended clinical application:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is right for your specific condition. The use of non-standardized biological extracts carries inherent risks of variability in potency and allergic potential.
Dosage for Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is not standardized and must be individualized by a specialist.
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric populations have not been extensively established for non-standardized glandular extracts. When used as an allergenic extract, pediatric dosing is generally based on the same titration principles as adult dosing, but with extreme caution. Clinical guidelines from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) suggest that immunotherapy in children should only be initiated by specialists experienced in pediatric anaphylaxis management.
Patients with renal impairment may be more sensitive to the vasopressin content of the extract. Reduced glomerular filtration rates (GFR) can lead to prolonged effects on water retention and electrolyte balance. Close monitoring of serum sodium is required.
While the primary metabolism is via peptidases, severe hepatic impairment may alter the plasma protein environment. No specific dose adjustments are standardized, but clinical monitoring is advised.
Elderly patients often have decreased cardiovascular reserve and are more susceptible to the hypertensive effects of vasopressin or the fluid-shifting effects of ADH-like activity. Lower starting doses and slower titration are recommended.
If a dose of immunotherapy is missed, the next dose may need to be reduced depending on the length of the delay. If more than 4 weeks have passed since the last dose, the clinician may restart the titration from a lower concentration. For oral forms, skip the missed dose and resume the normal schedule; do not double the dose.
Signs of overdose from the active components in the extract include:
In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive, focusing on fluid restriction for hyponatremia and epinephrine for allergic reactions.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose without medical guidance. The non-standardized nature of this product makes self-dosing extremely dangerous.
Given its nature as an allergenic extract, local reactions are the most frequent side effect.
> Warning: Stop taking Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these.
While Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior as a generic extract may not have a specific 'Black Box' warning in the same way as a synthetic drug like Pitocin, all Allergenic Extracts carry a general FDA-recognized warning regarding the risk of severe life-threatening systemic reactions.
Summary of Warning: This product can cause anaphylaxis, which may be fatal. It must only be administered by physicians who are exceptionally familiar with the treatment of drug-induced anaphylaxis and in a facility equipped with emergency resuscitation equipment, including epinephrine, oxygen, and airway management tools. Patients with unstable asthma are at a significantly higher risk for fatal reactions.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately. Local reactions larger than the palm of your hand should be reported before the next dose is administered.
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is a complex biological product. Because it is derived from animal tissue, it carries risks associated with foreign proteins. It should never be used without a clear diagnostic indication and professional medical oversight.
No specific FDA black box warning exists for the 'Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior' entity specifically in the NDC database, but it falls under the General Warning for Allergenic Extracts: "This product may cause severe systemic reactions, including fatal anaphylaxis. It should be used only by physicians experienced in the administration of allergenic extracts and the treatment of systemic reactions."
Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for at least 30-60 minutes after receiving an injection, as sudden onset of dizziness or an allergic reaction could impair their ability to operate the vehicle safely.
Alcohol can exacerbate the vasodilatory effects of some allergic reactions and may interfere with the body's ability to regulate water balance. It is recommended to avoid alcohol on the day of treatment.
If immunotherapy is discontinued abruptly, the patient will lose the immunological tolerance built up during the treatment. If the product is being used for hormonal support, abrupt discontinuation could theoretically lead to a temporary imbalance, though tapering is generally not as strictly required as it is for corticosteroids.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially heart disease, asthma, and pregnancy, with your healthcare provider before starting Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. The interaction between bovine proteins and human medications can be complex and unpredictable.
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
Conditions requiring careful risk-benefit analysis include:
Patients allergic to Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior may also react to:
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including any history of meat allergies or respiratory issues, before prescribing Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior.
FDA Pregnancy Category: C (Generic Glandulars). There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior in pregnant women. However, the extract contains Oxytocin, which is known to stimulate uterine contractions. Use during pregnancy could lead to preterm labor or fetal distress. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus, and never for elective allergy testing during pregnancy. According to the AAAAI, initiating allergen immunotherapy during pregnancy is generally avoided due to the risk of maternal anaphylaxis, which can cause fetal hypoxia (lack of oxygen).
It is not known whether the components of bovine pituitary extract are excreted in human milk. Because many hormones and proteins are excreted in milk, caution should be exercised. However, since oxytocin and vasopressin are peptides, they are likely to be digested in the infant's gastrointestinal tract if ingested orally. The primary risk remains a systemic allergic reaction in the mother that could interfere with breastfeeding.
Safety and efficacy in children have not been established through rigorous clinical trials. When used for allergy, the dose is not based on weight but on the patient's sensitivity level. Children must be monitored even more closely than adults, as they may not be able to articulate the early symptoms of a systemic reaction (e.g., itchy palms or a 'sense of doom').
Clinical studies of non-standardized extracts typically do not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over. Geriatric patients are more likely to have co-morbidities such as coronary artery disease or renal insufficiency, which increase the risks associated with the vasopressin and oxytocin content. Monitoring of blood pressure and electrolytes is essential in this population.
In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), the clearance of the active hormones may be reduced. More importantly, the kidney's response to the antidiuretic hormone (ADH) component may be blunted or unpredictable, leading to a higher risk of electrolyte imbalances. Dose adjustments should be made based on clinical response and serum sodium levels.
No specific studies exist for hepatic impairment. However, as the liver is a site for peptide degradation, severe cirrhosis could theoretically prolong the half-life of the active components. Use with caution in patients with Child-Pugh Class C impairment.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Always inform your specialist if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or have underlying kidney or heart issues.
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior acts as a biological source of neurohypophysial hormones and bovine-specific proteins. The Vasopressin component acts on V1a receptors to induce calcium-dependent contraction of vascular smooth muscle and on V2 receptors in the kidney to increase the permeability of the collecting duct to water. The Oxytocin component acts on the G-protein coupled oxytocin receptor, triggering the IP3/DAG pathway to increase intracellular calcium in uterine and mammary myoepithelial cells. In the context of Allergenic Extract [EPC] use, the proteins act as antigens that bind to IgE on the surface of mast cells and basophils, eventually leading to desensitization through the induction of T-regulatory cells and IgG4 'blocking' antibodies.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | <1% (Oral); ~100% (Injection) |
| Protein Binding | Minimal (<10%) |
| Half-life | 5 - 20 minutes (Peptide components) |
| Tmax | 15 - 30 minutes (Subcutaneous) |
| Metabolism | Plasma and tissue peptidases |
| Excretion | Renal (approx. 5-10% unchanged) |
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is classified as a Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract [EPC]. It is related to other bovine-derived products and purified posterior pituitary hormones like synthetic vasopressin and oxytocin.
Medications containing this ingredient
Common questions about Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is primarily used as an allergenic extract for the diagnosis and treatment of specific allergies to bovine pituitary proteins. In a clinical setting, an allergist may use it for skin testing to see if a patient has a hypersensitivity reaction. It is also used in immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots, to help desensitize the immune system over time. Some practitioners of traditional glandular therapy use it off-label to support endocrine health, although this is not an FDA-approved use. Because it contains natural hormones like vasopressin and oxytocin, it must be used with extreme caution under medical supervision.
The most common side effects are localized to the site of injection, including redness, itching, and swelling, which usually resolve within a day. Some patients may experience mild systemic symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, or itchy eyes shortly after administration. Because the extract contains active hormones, some individuals may also notice a mild headache or slight fluid retention. More serious but less common effects include nausea or abdominal cramping. Always report any side effects, especially large local reactions, to your healthcare provider before your next scheduled dose.
It is generally advised to avoid alcohol on the days you receive an injection of Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior. Alcohol can interfere with your body's fluid balance and may worsen the symptoms of an allergic reaction if one occurs. Furthermore, alcohol can mask the early warning signs of anaphylaxis, such as dizziness or flushing, making the treatment less safe. Alcohol also has a diuretic effect that could complicate the antidiuretic action of the vasopressin in the extract. Consult your doctor for specific guidance based on your treatment plan.
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed by an obstetrician for a medical necessity. The extract contains oxytocin, a hormone that naturally triggers uterine contractions and is used to induce labor; taking it prematurely could lead to miscarriage or preterm birth. Additionally, the risk of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) during treatment poses a significant danger to the fetus by reducing oxygen supply. Most allergists will not start new immunotherapy during pregnancy for this reason. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
The time it takes to see results depends on the reason for use. For diagnostic skin testing, a reaction typically appears within 15 to 20 minutes of application. For allergen immunotherapy (desensitization), it can take several months of weekly injections to reach a maintenance dose and up to a year to notice a significant reduction in allergy symptoms. The hormonal effects, such as changes in water retention or blood pressure, occur much faster—usually within minutes of an injection—but are very short-lived. Patience and consistency are key for long-term immunological benefits.
If you are receiving Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior as part of an allergy immunotherapy program, stopping suddenly will cause you to lose the progress made toward desensitization. Your immune system will likely return to its previous level of sensitivity over time. While stopping does not usually cause a 'withdrawal' in the traditional sense, it may make future treatments more difficult to restart. If you are using it for hormonal reasons, you should consult your doctor before stopping to ensure your endocrine system remains balanced. Never stop a prescribed medical treatment without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.
If you miss a scheduled injection of Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior, contact your allergist immediately to reschedule. Missing a dose during the 'build-up' phase of immunotherapy may require your doctor to repeat the previous dose or even reduce the dose for safety when you return. If you miss a dose during the 'maintenance' phase, you can usually resume your normal schedule if the delay is short. For oral forms, simply take the next dose at your usual time; do not take extra to make up for the missed one. Timely dosing is critical for the safety and effectiveness of allergenic extracts.
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior can cause temporary weight gain due to water retention. This is because the extract contains vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone), which signals the kidneys to hold onto water rather than excreting it as urine. This type of weight gain is usually minor and fluctuates based on your fluid intake and the timing of your dose. It is not the same as gaining body fat. However, if you notice sudden, significant swelling or a rapid increase in weight, you should contact your doctor, as it could indicate an electrolyte imbalance called hyponatremia.
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior can interact with several types of medications, some of which are very serious. For example, taking beta-blockers can make it much harder to treat a severe allergic reaction if one occurs. Diuretics and certain antidepressants can also interfere with how the hormones in the extract affect your blood pressure and fluid levels. It is vital to provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Your healthcare provider will determine if any of your current medications make the use of this extract unsafe for you.
Bos Taurus Pituitary Gland, Posterior is a biological extract and is not 'generic' in the same way that simple chemical drugs like aspirin are. However, it is available from various specialized biological laboratories as a non-standardized extract. Because it is non-standardized, products from different manufacturers may vary in their protein and hormone content. It is not considered interchangeable with synthetic, standardized hormones like Pitocin or Vasostrict. Always use the specific brand or formulation recommended by your specialist to ensure consistent results and safety throughout your treatment.