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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Standardized Insect Venom Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Sedum Acre (Goldmoss Stonecrop) is a specialized allergenic extract used in clinical immunology for the diagnosis and treatment of hypersensitivity. It belongs to the class of non-standardized plant allergenic extracts and is primarily administered via subcutaneous injection.
Name
Sedum Acre
Raw Name
SEDUM ACRE
Category
Standardized Insect Venom Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Drug Count
3
Variant Count
3
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Sedum Acre
Sedum Acre (Goldmoss Stonecrop) is a specialized allergenic extract used in clinical immunology for the diagnosis and treatment of hypersensitivity. It belongs to the class of non-standardized plant allergenic extracts and is primarily administered via subcutaneous injection.
Detailed information about Sedum Acre
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Sedum Acre.
Sedum Acre, commonly known as Goldmoss Stonecrop or Biting Stonecrop, is a perennial flowering plant that serves as a source for specialized allergenic extracts used in clinical immunology. Within the pharmacological landscape, Sedum Acre belongs to a class of drugs called Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extracts [EPC]. These substances are complex biological mixtures derived from the pollen or tissue of the plant, processed into a sterile liquid form for medical use. While the plant itself has historical roots in traditional folk medicine, its modern clinical application is strictly regulated by the FDA's Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER) as a biological product.
Sedum Acre extracts are primarily utilized by allergists and immunologists for two distinct purposes: diagnostic skin testing (to identify specific sensitivities) and allergen immunotherapy (to desensitize patients to environmental allergens). According to the FDA-approved labeling for allergenic extracts, these products are indicated for patients who exhibit symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or allergic asthma when exposure to the specific allergen occurs. The history of FDA oversight for these extracts dates back to the early 20th century, with modern standardization and safety protocols evolving significantly over the last three decades to ensure potency and purity.
The mechanism of action for Sedum Acre as an allergenic extract is rooted in the modulation of the human immune system. When used for diagnostic purposes (skin prick testing), the extract is introduced into the epidermis. In sensitized individuals, specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies bound to mast cells recognize the Sedum Acre proteins, triggering the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators. This results in a localized 'wheal and flare' reaction (a raised bump and redness), which confirms the patient's sensitivity.
When used for therapeutic immunotherapy, the mechanism is more complex. The goal is to induce 'immunological tolerance.' By administering gradually increasing doses of the Sedum Acre extract over several months, the healthcare provider encourages the immune system to shift its response. At the molecular level, this involves a transition from a Th2-dominated response (which produces IgE and promotes allergy) to a Th1-dominated response or the induction of T-regulatory (Treg) cells. These regulatory cells produce cytokines like Interleukin-10 (IL-10) and Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β), which suppress the allergic inflammation. Furthermore, the body begins producing 'blocking antibodies' known as Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4), which can intercept the allergen before it can bind to IgE on mast cells, effectively preventing the allergic cascade.
Unlike traditional small-molecule drugs (such as ibuprofen or lisinopril), allergenic extracts like Sedum Acre do not follow a standard pharmacokinetic path of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion in the traditional sense.
Sedum Acre allergenic extract is indicated for the following:
Sedum Acre is typically available in the following formats:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Sedum Acre is right for your specific condition. Administration must occur in a clinical setting equipped to handle emergency allergic reactions.
Dosage for Sedum Acre allergenic extract is highly individualized and must be determined by an allergy specialist based on the patient's sensitivity level. There is no 'one-size-fits-all' dose.
For percutaneous (skin prick) testing, a single drop of the extract (typically at a 1:10 or 1:20 w/v concentration) is applied to the skin. For intradermal testing, 0.02 mL of a highly diluted extract (e.g., 100 PNU/mL) is injected.
The 'Build-up Phase' involves injections once or twice weekly. The starting dose is usually 0.05 mL of a very low concentration (e.g., 1:100,000 w/v). The volume is increased by 0.05 mL to 0.10 mL each week until a maintenance dose is reached, typically 0.5 mL of the most concentrated vial.
Once the maintenance dose is achieved, the frequency of injections is decreased to once every 2 to 4 weeks. This phase usually lasts 3 to 5 years to ensure long-term desensitization.
Sedum Acre extracts may be used in children, generally starting around age 5, depending on the child's ability to cooperate with the injection schedule and the severity of their symptoms. The dosing protocol is similar to that of adults but may involve more cautious increments in the build-up phase. Safety and efficacy in children under 5 years of age have not been extensively established in clinical trials.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for patients with renal impairment, as the extract is not cleared primarily by the kidneys in a manner that affects its immunological activity. However, overall health must be stable before administration.
No dosage adjustments are typically necessary for hepatic impairment. The metabolic breakdown of proteins occurs via proteases throughout the body, not solely in the liver.
Caution is advised in elderly patients, particularly those with underlying cardiovascular disease. The risk of being unable to tolerate a systemic reaction or the emergency medications (like epinephrine) used to treat such a reaction must be weighed against the benefits of immunotherapy.
Sedum Acre allergenic extract is never self-administered by the patient. It must be administered by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital setting.
If a dose is missed during the build-up phase, the next dose may need to be reduced to ensure safety. If several weeks are missed, the healthcare provider may need to restart the build-up from a much lower concentration to avoid a 're-exposure' reaction. Never try to 'double up' or catch up on missed doses at home.
An 'overdose' in the context of allergenic extracts refers to the administration of a dose that exceeds the patient's current tolerance level, potentially leading to anaphylaxis.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions precisely. Do not adjust your schedule without medical guidance.
Most patients receiving Sedum Acre injections will experience some form of local reaction. These are generally not dangerous but can be uncomfortable.
These reactions are more systemic in nature and require close monitoring:
Rare side effects are often serious and indicate a high level of sensitivity:
> Warning: Stop taking Sedum Acre and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms of anaphylaxis.
There are few long-term negative side effects associated with Sedum Acre immunotherapy. The most common 'long-term' issue is the development of small, firm nodules (granulomas) under the skin at the injection sites. These are generally harmless and resolve over several months. There is no evidence that long-term use of allergenic extracts increases the risk of cancer or autoimmune disease.
According to the FDA-standardized labeling for allergenic extracts, these products carry a warning regarding the risk of Severe Allergic Reactions.
Report any unusual symptoms, even if they seem mild, to your healthcare provider before your next scheduled injection.
Sedum Acre allergenic extract is a potent biological substance. It is vital that patients understand that 'more is not better' in the context of allergy shots. The goal is to find the highest dose that the body can tolerate without a systemic reaction. Patients must be in good health on the day of their injection; if you have a fever, a bad cough, or an asthma flare-up, your doctor will likely postpone your dose.
No FDA black box warnings specifically name 'Sedum Acre' exclusively, but all allergenic extracts in this class are subject to the general class warning for Anaphylaxis. The warning states that these products can cause severe, life-threatening systemic reactions. Because of this risk, they must be administered in a medical setting with a minimum 30-minute post-injection observation period.
While routine blood work is not typically required for Sedum Acre immunotherapy, the following monitoring is standard:
Generally, Sedum Acre does not affect the ability to drive. However, if you experience a systemic reaction or are given antihistamines or epinephrine to treat a reaction, you should not drive until your doctor confirms it is safe and any drowsiness has passed.
Alcohol should be avoided for several hours before and after an injection. Alcohol increases blood flow to the skin and can potentially accelerate the absorption of the allergen, increasing the risk of a systemic reaction.
If Sedum Acre immunotherapy is discontinued, there is no 'withdrawal' syndrome. However, the allergic symptoms that were being treated may gradually return over several months or years. If you must stop treatment, discuss a plan with your allergist to manage your symptoms using other medications.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially heart or lung problems, with your healthcare provider before starting Sedum Acre.
There are few absolute contraindications for drug combinations, but the following are considered highly dangerous:
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially any heart or blood pressure medications.
Sedum Acre must NEVER be used in the following circumstances:
In these cases, the doctor will perform a careful risk-benefit analysis:
Patients allergic to Sedum Acre (Goldmoss Stonecrop) may show cross-reactivity with other members of the Crassulaceae family. While not always clinically significant, your doctor should be aware of any sensitivities to other succulents or stonecrops.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including your current lung function and heart health, before prescribing Sedum Acre.
Sedum Acre is generally classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C.
Sedum Acre extracts are not known to pass into breast milk in any significant amount. Because they are proteins that are digested in the gut, they pose no known risk to the nursing infant. Immunotherapy is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
In patients over 65, the decision to use Sedum Acre must consider:
No specific adjustments are needed. The immunological proteins are not cleared by the kidneys in a way that increases toxicity in patients with renal failure. However, patients on dialysis should have their injections scheduled on non-dialysis days to ensure stability.
No adjustments are required. Liver function does not significantly impact the safety or efficacy of subcutaneous allergenic extracts.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment and often a more cautious dosing approach.
Sedum Acre functions as an immunomodulator. Its primary molecular target is the T-lymphocyte. In an allergic individual, the immune system is 'polarized' toward a Th2 response, producing cytokines like IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. Sedum Acre immunotherapy forces a 'class switch.' It induces the production of T-regulatory (Treg) cells that secrete IL-10. This IL-10 does two things: it suppresses the Th2 inflammatory response and signals B-cells to produce IgG4 instead of IgE. IgG4 acts as a 'decoy' or 'blocking' antibody, binding to the Sedum Acre proteins before they can reach the IgE on the surface of mast cells.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | N/A (Subcutaneous absorption is gradual) |
| Protein Binding | N/A (Interacts with immune cells) |
| Half-life | Proteins degraded within hours; immune effect lasts years |
| Tmax | 15-30 minutes (for local reaction) |
| Metabolism | Local and systemic proteases |
| Excretion | Renal (as amino acid metabolites) |
Sedum Acre extract is a complex biological mixture. It contains various proteins, glycoproteins, and polysaccharides derived from the Sedum acre plant. Because it is a 'non-standardized' extract, the exact concentration of specific major allergens is not measured; instead, the total potency is expressed in Protein Nitrogen Units (PNU) or Weight/Volume (w/v) ratios.
Sedum Acre is classified as a Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract. It is grouped with other succulent and weed extracts used in immunotherapy. Unlike 'Standardized' extracts (like Ragweed or Grass), the 'biological potency' of Sedum Acre is not compared to a national reference standard, making the physician's experience with the specific manufacturer's product vital.
Common questions about Sedum Acre
Sedum Acre is primarily used as an allergenic extract for the diagnosis and treatment of specific allergies. In a clinical setting, it is used in skin prick testing to confirm if a patient is allergic to the Goldmoss Stonecrop plant. If an allergy is confirmed and symptoms are severe, it is used in 'allergy shots' (immunotherapy) to gradually desensitize the patient's immune system. This process involves injecting small, increasing amounts of the plant's proteins to help the body build tolerance. It is not used for general nutritional or herbal purposes in modern clinical medicine.
The most common side effects are localized to the site of the injection. Patients frequently experience redness, itching, and a small raised bump (wheal) similar to a mosquito bite. These reactions usually appear within minutes and resolve within a few hours. Some patients may also experience mild swelling that lasts for a day or two. While these local reactions are common and usually harmless, they should always be reported to the nurse or doctor before the next dose is administered.
It is strongly recommended to avoid alcohol on the day of your Sedum Acre injection. Alcohol causes the blood vessels near the surface of the skin to dilate (expand), which can lead to faster absorption of the allergen into your bloodstream. This increased absorption rate significantly raises the risk of a systemic or 'whole-body' allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis. For your safety, wait at least 24 hours after your injection before consuming alcoholic beverages. Always consult your allergist for their specific office policy regarding alcohol and immunotherapy.
Sedum Acre immunotherapy is generally not started during pregnancy due to the risk of anaphylaxis, which can be dangerous for both the mother and the fetus. However, if a woman is already on a stable 'maintenance' dose and becomes pregnant, many allergists will continue the treatment at that same dose. The goal is to avoid any dose increases that could trigger a reaction during pregnancy. There is no evidence that the extract itself causes birth defects. You must inform your allergist immediately if you become pregnant while receiving these injections.
Immunotherapy with Sedum Acre is a slow process that requires patience. Most patients do not see a significant reduction in their allergy symptoms until they reach their 'maintenance dose,' which typically takes 3 to 6 months of weekly injections. Full effectiveness and long-term protection are usually achieved after 12 months of consistent treatment. Most experts recommend continuing the injections for 3 to 5 years to ensure the immune system change is permanent. If you do not see improvement after a year, your doctor may re-evaluate the treatment plan.
Yes, you can stop taking Sedum Acre injections suddenly without experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms like those seen with some other medications. However, stopping treatment prematurely—especially before the 3-year mark—usually results in the eventual return of your allergy symptoms. If you stop during the 'build-up' phase, you will lose any progress you have made toward desensitization. If you need to stop treatment, discuss it with your doctor so they can provide alternative ways to manage your allergy symptoms.
If you miss a dose of Sedum Acre, do not attempt to self-administer or take an extra dose later. Contact your allergist's office to reschedule. Depending on how many weeks you have missed, your doctor may need to reduce your next dose to ensure your safety. If a significant amount of time has passed (usually more than 4 weeks), you may need to go back several steps in your 'build-up' schedule. Consistency is the key to both the safety and the success of allergen immunotherapy.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that Sedum Acre allergenic extracts cause weight gain. These extracts consist of proteins and glycoproteins that are injected in very small quantities and do not affect the body's metabolism or appetite. If you experience weight gain while on immunotherapy, it is likely due to other factors, such as the use of oral corticosteroids (like prednisone) for asthma or other unrelated lifestyle changes. Discuss any concerns about weight with your primary care physician.
Sedum Acre can be taken with many medications, but certain drugs like beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors require extreme caution. Beta-blockers, often used for heart conditions or migraines, can make an allergic reaction to the injection much more dangerous and harder to treat. You should also tell your doctor if you are taking antihistamines, as these can hide the early signs of a reaction or interfere with diagnostic testing. Always provide your allergist with a complete and updated list of all medications and supplements you are taking.
The concept of 'generic' vs 'brand name' is different for allergenic extracts like Sedum Acre compared to standard pills. These are biological products, and while multiple manufacturers may produce a Sedum Acre extract, they are not considered identical or interchangeable. Each manufacturer's extract may have a different concentration of proteins. Therefore, if you switch clinics or if your doctor changes suppliers, they will usually restart your dosing at a lower level to ensure your immune system can safely tolerate the new version of the extract.