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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]
Myrica Cerifera Pollen is a non-standardized allergenic extract used in the diagnosis and treatment of IgE-mediated allergies to Southern Wax Myrtle. It belongs to the class of allergenic extracts used for subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT).
Name
Myrica Cerifera Pollen
Raw Name
MYRICA CERIFERA POLLEN
Category
Non-Standardized Pollen Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Drug Count
3
Variant Count
3
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Myrica Cerifera Pollen
Myrica Cerifera Pollen is a non-standardized allergenic extract used in the diagnosis and treatment of IgE-mediated allergies to Southern Wax Myrtle. It belongs to the class of allergenic extracts used for subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT).
Detailed information about Myrica Cerifera Pollen
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Myrica Cerifera Pollen.
Myrica Cerifera Pollen, commonly known as Southern Wax Myrtle or Bayberry pollen, is a biological substance used in the field of clinical allergy and immunology. It is classified pharmacologically as a Non-Standardized Pollen Allergenic Extract [EPC]. These extracts are derived from the male catkins of the Myrica cerifera plant, a shrub or small tree native to the southeastern United States. In clinical practice, this extract is utilized for two primary purposes: the diagnostic identification of hypersensitivity (allergy) through skin testing and the long-term treatment of allergic rhinitis or bronchial asthma through a process known as immunotherapy (allergy shots).
As a member of the Non-Standardized Pollen Allergenic Extract class, Myrica Cerifera Pollen does not have a federally mandated potency unit (such as the Bioequivalent Allergy Unit or BAU) assigned by the FDA. Instead, its potency is typically expressed in terms of weight/volume (w/v) ratio or Protein Nitrogen Units (PNU). This classification is critical for healthcare providers to understand, as it implies that the biological activity may vary between different manufacturers or even between different lots from the same manufacturer. The FDA regulated these biologics under the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), ensuring that while they are 'non-standardized' in potency units, they meet strict requirements for identity, purity, and safety.
To understand how Myrica Cerifera Pollen works, one must first understand the pathophysiology of a Type I hypersensitivity reaction. When a sensitized individual is exposed to the pollen of the Southern Wax Myrtle, their immune system produces specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. These antibodies bind to high-affinity receptors on mast cells and basophils. Upon subsequent exposure, the allergens in the pollen cross-link these IgE antibodies, triggering the degranulation of these cells and the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins. This results in the classic symptoms of hay fever: sneezing, itching, and congestion.
When used in Allergen Immunotherapy (AIT), Myrica Cerifera Pollen works by inducing 'immunological tolerance.' This is a complex, multi-step process. Initially, the repeated administration of increasing doses of the allergen leads to a shift in the T-cell response. Specifically, it promotes a move away from the Th2 (T-helper type 2) response, which is pro-allergic, toward a Th1 response or a regulatory T-cell (Treg) response. These regulatory T-cells produce inhibitory cytokines such as Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β). Furthermore, the treatment induces the production of 'blocking antibodies,' primarily of the IgG4 subclass. These IgG4 antibodies compete with IgE for allergen binding, effectively preventing the mast cell activation that causes symptoms. Over time, this decreases the patient's sensitivity to natural environmental exposure to the pollen.
Unlike traditional small-molecule drugs, the pharmacokinetics of allergenic extracts like Myrica Cerifera Pollen are not measured by traditional blood levels (Cmax or Tmax). Because these are complex mixtures of proteins and glycoproteins, their 'disposition' is immunological rather than metabolic.
Myrica Cerifera Pollen is FDA-approved for the following indications:
Myrica Cerifera Pollen is available exclusively as a sterile solution for injection. It is typically supplied in:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Myrica Cerifera Pollen is right for your specific condition. The diagnosis of pollen allergy must be confirmed by clinical history and objective testing before starting treatment.
The dosage for Myrica Cerifera Pollen allergenic extract is highly individualized and must be determined by an allergist based on the patient's sensitivity level. There is no 'standard' dose that applies to all patients. The treatment is divided into two distinct phases:
During this initial phase, the patient receives injections once or twice a week. The starting dose is usually a very small volume (e.g., 0.05 mL) of a highly diluted extract (e.g., 1:10,000 w/v). The dose is gradually increased with each subsequent injection, provided the patient tolerates the previous dose without significant local or systemic reactions. This phase typically lasts 3 to 6 months until the 'maintenance dose' is reached.
Once the maintenance dose (the highest dose tolerated by the patient that provides clinical benefit) is reached, the interval between injections is increased. Usually, injections are given every 2 to 4 weeks. A common maintenance volume is 0.5 mL of the most concentrated vial (e.g., 1:20 or 1:10 w/v), though this varies widely.
Myrica Cerifera Pollen is generally considered safe for use in children, typically those aged 5 years and older. The dosing principles for children are identical to those for adults, focusing on the patient's specific sensitivity rather than age or body weight. However, extra caution is required in younger children who may have difficulty communicating the early symptoms of a systemic reaction (anaphylaxis). Immunotherapy is rarely initiated in children under the age of 5.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for patients with renal impairment, as the proteins are degraded by proteases rather than cleared primarily by the kidneys. However, the patient's overall health must be stable.
No dosage adjustments are necessary for hepatic impairment. The liver does not play a primary role in the processing of allergenic extracts.
Elderly patients may be at higher risk for complications if a systemic reaction occurs, particularly if they have underlying cardiovascular disease. Dosing should be cautious, and the benefit-risk ratio must be carefully evaluated.
If a dose is missed during the build-up phase, the next dose may need to be reduced or the previous dose repeated, depending on how much time has elapsed. If a maintenance dose is missed for more than a few weeks, the allergist will typically reduce the dose for the next injection to ensure safety and then gradually build back up. Never attempt to 'double up' on doses to make up for a missed one.
An 'overdose' in the context of immunotherapy refers to the administration of a dose that exceeds the patient's current tolerance level. This can occur due to a calculation error or a failure to adjust the dose during peak pollen season.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not adjust your dose or the timing of your injections without direct medical guidance from your allergist.
Local reactions at the site of injection are the most frequent side effects of Myrica Cerifera Pollen immunotherapy. These are generally considered a normal part of the body's response to the allergen.
> Warning: Stop taking Myrica Cerifera Pollen and call your doctor immediately or seek emergency care if you experience any of the following symptoms of anaphylaxis:
There are no known long-term 'toxic' effects of Myrica Cerifera Pollen extracts on organs like the liver or kidneys. The primary long-term consideration is the potential for 'shifting' allergies or the development of new sensitivities, though immunotherapy is generally thought to prevent the development of new allergies in children. Some patients may experience a persistent small nodule under the skin at the injection site if aluminum-adsorbed extracts are used.
Myrica Cerifera Pollen, like all allergenic extracts, carries a FDA-mandated Boxed Warning regarding the risk of severe systemic reactions.
Summary of Boxed Warning:
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Even a 'minor' systemic reaction (like hives) must be reported before your next dose, as it may predict a more severe reaction in the future.
Myrica Cerifera Pollen is a potent biological agent. Its use is restricted to patients with a clear diagnosis of IgE-mediated allergy. It is not a general 'immune booster' and will not help with non-allergic (vasomotor) rhinitis. Safety is dependent on strict adherence to the 30-minute observation period and the availability of emergency medical equipment.
No FDA black box warnings for Myrica Cerifera Pollen. (Note: While all allergenic extracts carry heavy warnings, they are often formatted as 'Warnings' sections in the package insert rather than a formal 'Black Box' in the same way as high-risk pharmaceuticals like antidepressants or blood thinners. However, the clinical community treats the anaphylaxis warning with the same level of gravity. Always refer to the specific manufacturer's label as some standardized extracts do have formal boxed warnings.)
There are no routine lab tests (like blood counts or liver panels) required for Myrica Cerifera Pollen. However, monitoring involves:
Myrica Cerifera Pollen does not typically cause sedation. However, if you experience a systemic reaction or receive epinephrine to treat a reaction, you should not drive or operate machinery until you have fully recovered and been cleared by a medical professional.
There is no direct interaction between alcohol and Myrica Cerifera Pollen. However, alcohol can cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which could theoretically accelerate the absorption of the allergen or mask the early symptoms of an allergic reaction. It is best to avoid alcohol on the day of your injection.
Immunotherapy is typically continued for 3 to 5 years. Stopping 'cold turkey' does not cause a withdrawal syndrome like some medications, but your allergy symptoms may return if the immune system has not been sufficiently desensitized. Discuss a tapering or cessation plan with your allergist.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially heart or lung problems, with your healthcare provider before starting Myrica Cerifera Pollen.
There are no absolute drug-drug contraindications that prevent the use of Myrica Cerifera Pollen, but there are combinations that make the treatment significantly more dangerous.
There are no specific food interactions with Myrica Cerifera Pollen. However, if you have known food allergies, you should avoid eating those foods on the day of your injection, as a mild food reaction could combine with the injection to cause a more severe systemic event.
No formal studies have been conducted on herbal interactions. However, supplements that have 'immune-stimulating' properties (like Echinacea) or those that might affect heart rate (like Ephedra or high-dose caffeine) should be discussed with your allergist, as they could theoretically influence the immune response or the safety of treating a reaction.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, including those for blood pressure, heart rhythm, or depression.
Myrica Cerifera Pollen must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
These conditions require a careful risk-benefit analysis by the allergist:
Patients allergic to Myrica Cerifera may also react to other members of the Myricaceae family. There is also documented cross-reactivity between certain tree pollens and certain fruits (Pollen-Food Allergy Syndrome). While less common with Wax Myrtle than with Birch, some patients may experience an itchy mouth when eating specific raw fruits. Discuss these symptoms with your doctor.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including your current lung function and heart health, before prescribing Myrica Cerifera Pollen.
Myrica Cerifera Pollen allergenic extracts are not known to pass into breast milk in any clinically significant way. These are large proteins that would be digested in the infant's stomach even if small amounts were present. Breastfeeding is generally considered safe during immunotherapy. The primary concern remains the mother's safety; if the mother has a severe reaction, it could temporarily interfere with her ability to breastfeed.
Immunotherapy with Myrica Cerifera Pollen is approved for children, generally starting at age 5. Clinical trials and decades of use have shown that it is effective in reducing the 'allergic march'—the progression from allergic rhinitis to asthma. Parents must be vigilant in observing the child after injections and reporting any 'itchy throat' or 'tummy ache,' which can be early signs of a systemic reaction in children.
Patients over age 65 can receive Myrica Cerifera Pollen, but the decision must be cautious. Older adults are more likely to have underlying cardiovascular disease (hypertension, coronary artery disease) which makes them more vulnerable to the effects of anaphylaxis or the epinephrine used to treat it. Additionally, polypharmacy (taking many medications) increases the risk of drug interactions with beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors.
There are no specific guidelines for renal impairment. Because the allergens are proteins that undergo proteolytic degradation, kidney function does not significantly impact the 'clearance' of the drug. However, patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) should be treated with caution due to their overall fragile health status.
No dosage adjustments are required for patients with liver disease. The liver is not involved in the immunological processing of subcutaneous allergenic extracts.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Pregnant women should notify their allergist immediately upon learning of their pregnancy.
Myrica Cerifera Pollen extract works through Immunological Desensitization. The extract contains the major and minor allergens (proteins) from the Southern Wax Myrtle pollen. When injected subcutaneously in gradually increasing doses, it induces several key changes:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | N/A (Subcutaneous absorption into lymphatics) |
| Protein Binding | N/A (Interacts with IgE/IgG antibodies) |
| Half-life | N/A (Immunological memory lasts years) |
| Tmax | 1-2 hours (for peak systemic absorption of allergens) |
| Metabolism | Proteolytic degradation by local proteases |
| Excretion | Renal (as small peptide fragments) |
Myrica Cerifera Pollen is a Non-Standardized Pollen Allergenic Extract. It belongs to the broader therapeutic category of Biologicals / Allergenics. Related medications include other tree pollen extracts (e.g., Oak, Pine, Birch) and standardized extracts like Timothy Grass or Short Ragweed.
Common questions about Myrica Cerifera Pollen
Myrica Cerifera Pollen extract is primarily used for the diagnosis and treatment of seasonal allergies caused by the Southern Wax Myrtle tree. In diagnostic settings, a small amount is applied to the skin to see if a 'wheal and flare' reaction occurs, confirming an allergy. For treatment, it is used in allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) to gradually desensitize the immune system. This process helps reduce symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and asthma flares during the spring and fall. It is intended for patients who do not get enough relief from standard allergy medications.
The most common side effects are local reactions at the site where the injection was given. These include redness, itching, and swelling that may feel like a mosquito bite or a larger 'lump' under the skin. These reactions usually appear within minutes and fade within a few hours. Some patients may also experience temporary fatigue or a slight increase in their typical allergy symptoms. While common, large local reactions should always be reported to your doctor before your next shot to ensure your dose is still appropriate.
It is generally advised to avoid alcohol on the day of your Myrica Cerifera Pollen injection. Alcohol can cause your blood vessels to dilate (widen), which might speed up the absorption of the pollen extract into your bloodstream and increase the risk of a systemic reaction. Additionally, alcohol can sometimes mask the early signs of an allergic reaction, such as flushing or a rapid heartbeat. To ensure maximum safety during the 24 hours following your shot, staying away from alcohol is a prudent choice. Always discuss your lifestyle habits with your allergist.
The safety of Myrica Cerifera Pollen during pregnancy depends on whether you are just starting the treatment or are already on a maintenance dose. Doctors generally will not start new allergy shots during pregnancy because the risk of a severe reaction could harm the developing fetus by reducing oxygen flow. However, if you are already on a stable maintenance dose and are tolerating it well, most allergists will allow you to continue the treatment. You should notify your healthcare provider immediately if you become pregnant so they can monitor you closely and ensure your dose is not increased. The primary goal is to avoid any systemic allergic reactions during the pregnancy.
Immunotherapy with Myrica Cerifera Pollen is a long-term commitment and does not provide instant relief. Most patients begin to notice an improvement in their allergy symptoms during the first 'peak season' after they reach their maintenance dose, which usually takes 3 to 6 months of weekly injections. Significant and lasting relief typically requires 12 to 18 months of consistent treatment. For the best long-term results, the treatment is usually continued for a total of 3 to 5 years. If no improvement is seen after one year of maintenance therapy, your doctor may re-evaluate the treatment plan.
Yes, you can stop taking Myrica Cerifera Pollen injections suddenly without experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms like you might with certain other medications. However, stopping prematurely—especially before completing at least 3 years of treatment—greatly increases the chance that your allergy symptoms will return. The immune system requires a long period of 'retraining' to maintain its tolerance to the pollen. If you need to stop treatment due to a move, financial reasons, or side effects, discuss it with your allergist first. They may be able to adjust your schedule or help you find a new provider to maintain your progress.
If you miss a dose of Myrica Cerifera Pollen, you should contact your allergist's office to reschedule as soon as possible. The procedure for a missed dose depends on how long it has been since your last injection and whether you are in the build-up or maintenance phase. If only a few days have passed, you may be able to continue with your scheduled dose. If several weeks have passed, your doctor will likely need to reduce the dose for your next injection to ensure safety and then gradually build it back up. Never attempt to administer a dose yourself or take extra to make up for the missed one.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that Myrica Cerifera Pollen allergenic extracts cause weight gain. These extracts consist of natural proteins and do not contain hormones or metabolic-altering chemicals. If you experience weight changes while on immunotherapy, it is likely due to other factors, such as the use of oral corticosteroids for asthma flares or other unrelated health conditions. If you are concerned about weight gain, you should discuss it with your primary care physician to identify the underlying cause. Your allergy shots themselves are not a known cause of metabolic changes.
Myrica Cerifera Pollen can be taken alongside most common medications, but there are important exceptions. You must tell your doctor if you are taking beta-blockers (often used for blood pressure, heart rhythm, or migraines) or ACE inhibitors, as these can make allergic reactions more dangerous or harder to treat. Most other medications, including daily allergy pills, nasal sprays, and asthma inhalers, are perfectly fine and often necessary to use during the early stages of immunotherapy. Always provide your allergist with a complete and updated list of all your prescriptions and over-the-counter supplements.
The concept of 'generic' vs. 'brand name' is slightly different for allergenic extracts. Myrica Cerifera Pollen is a biological product, and while different laboratories produce it, they are not usually marketed as generics in the way tablets are. Instead, different manufacturers (such as Greer, ALK, or Stallergenes Greer) produce their own versions of the extract. Your allergist will typically stick with one manufacturer's extract for your treatment because switching between them can involve slight differences in potency. While not a 'generic,' these extracts are generally covered by most insurance plans as a standard part of allergy care.