Loading...
Loading...
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Brand Name
Dulcamara
Generic Name
Dulcamara
Active Ingredient
Solanum Dulcamara TopCategory
Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Variants
13
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 [hp_X]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 15631-0172 |
| 30 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | SUBLINGUAL | 76472-4048 |
| 200 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | SUBLINGUAL | 76472-4080 |
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Dulcamara, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| 1 [hp_M]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1644 |
| 12 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1639 |
| 2 [hp_X]/mL | LIQUID | ORAL | 15631-2723 |
| 100 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1641 |
| 200 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1642 |
| 10 [hp_M]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1645 |
| 30 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1640 |
| 500 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1643 |
| 6 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1638 |
+ 1 more variants
Detailed information about Dulcamara
Solanum Dulcamara Top is a non-standardized plant allergenic extract primarily utilized in the diagnosis and treatment of specific environmental allergies. It belongs to the class of Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extracts [EPC] and is used under strict clinical supervision.
Dosage for Solanum Dulcamara Top is highly individualized and must be determined by an allergy specialist. There is no 'standard' dose because the concentration depends on the patient's level of sensitivity.
Solanum Dulcamara Top may be used in children, but the dosage must be adjusted with extreme caution. Pediatric patients may be more susceptible to rapid systemic reactions. The starting dilutions for immunotherapy in children are often even more conservative than those used for adults. Healthcare providers typically evaluate the child's weight and overall health before initiating a testing or treatment protocol.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for patients with renal impairment, as the extract is not cleared via traditional renal filtration. However, the patient's overall stability must be considered.
No dosage adjustments are established for hepatic impairment. The metabolism of allergenic proteins occurs via local tissue proteolysis rather than hepatic pathways.
Elderly patients may have reduced physiological reserve to handle a systemic reaction (anaphylaxis). Healthcare providers may use more cautious dosing increments and monitor cardiac function more closely during the build-up phase.
Solanum Dulcamara Top is never self-administered by the patient at home. It must be administered in a clinical setting equipped to handle emergency allergic reactions.
If a dose of immunotherapy is missed, the next dose may need to be reduced depending on how much time has passed.
An 'overdose' in the context of allergenic extracts usually refers to an injection of a concentration that exceeds the patient's current tolerance level. Signs include:
Emergency Measures: Immediate administration of epinephrine (1:1000) is the primary treatment. Healthcare providers will also use antihistamines, corticosteroids, and IV fluids as necessary.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose or skip appointments without medical guidance.
Most patients receiving Solanum Dulcamara Top will experience some form of local reaction. These are generally considered expected and are not usually a reason to discontinue treatment.
Solanum Dulcamara Top is a potent biological agent. Its use requires a careful balance between therapeutic benefit and the risk of induced allergic reactions. Patients must be fully informed of the risks and must have access to emergency care during and immediately after administration.
No FDA black box warnings for Solanum Dulcamara Top specifically, however, it falls under the general class warning for all Non-Standardized Allergenic Extracts. This warning emphasizes that these products are intended for use by physicians experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies. Because the potency is not standardized, there is a risk of variability between lots, which can lead to unexpected reactions when switching vials.
The most significant risk is a systemic allergic reaction. This can occur even in patients who have previously tolerated the extract without issue. Factors that increase this risk include:
There are several scenarios where Solanum Dulcamara Top must NEVER be used:
Solanum Dulcamara Top is generally classified as Pregnancy Category C.
It is not known whether the allergenic components of Solanum Dulcamara Top are excreted in human milk. However, because these are large proteins that are processed locally in the mother's immune system, it is highly unlikely that they would reach the infant in significant amounts through breastfeeding. The primary concern remains the mother's safety and the potential need for medications like epinephrine, which could affect milk supply or the infant.
Solanum Dulcamara Top acts as an exogenous antigen. Its primary molecular mechanism is the induction of Ammonium Ion Binding Activity [MoA]. This binding activity is thought to influence the solubility and stability of the allergenic proteins, facilitating their uptake by dendritic cells. Once inside the cell, these proteins are broken down into peptides and displayed on Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II molecules. This presentation to T-cell receptors (TCRs) is the critical step in either triggering an allergic response (in the case of skin testing) or modulating the immune system toward tolerance (in the case of immunotherapy).
Common questions about Dulcamara
Solanum Dulcamara Top is primarily used by allergy specialists as a diagnostic tool and a therapeutic agent. For diagnosis, it is applied during skin prick testing to identify if a patient has an IgE-mediated allergy to the Bittersweet Nightshade plant. For treatment, it is used in allergen immunotherapy, commonly known as 'allergy shots,' where small, increasing amounts of the extract are injected to help the body build a tolerance. This process can significantly reduce symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and asthma triggered by this plant. It is never used for self-treatment and must be managed by a healthcare professional.
The most frequent side effects are localized to the site of the injection or skin test. Patients commonly experience redness, swelling, and itching at the site, which usually resolve within a few hours to a day. Some people may also experience a 'large local reaction,' where the swelling is several centimeters wide. Systemic side effects, though less common, can include fatigue, mild headache, or a temporary increase in hay fever symptoms. Because of the risk of a severe reaction like anaphylaxis, all patients must be monitored for at least 30 minutes after receiving the extract.
It is strongly recommended that you avoid alcohol on the days you receive a Solanum Dulcamara Top injection. Alcohol acts as a vasodilator, meaning it widens your blood vessels, which can increase the speed at which the allergen is absorbed into your bloodstream. This increased absorption rate significantly raises the risk of a systemic allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. Furthermore, alcohol can mask the early symptoms of a reaction, making it harder for you or your doctor to identify an emergency. Always wait at least 24 hours after your injection before consuming alcoholic beverages.
Solanum Dulcamara Top is generally not started during pregnancy due to safety concerns. While the extract itself is not known to be a teratogen (substance that causes birth defects), the risk of a systemic allergic reaction is a major concern. If a pregnant woman experiences anaphylaxis, the resulting drop in blood pressure and oxygen levels can be very dangerous for the developing fetus. However, if a woman is already on a stable maintenance dose of immunotherapy before becoming pregnant, her doctor may decide to continue the treatment. You must inform your allergist immediately if you become pregnant or are planning to conceive.
The timeframe for Solanum Dulcamara Top to show results depends on how it is being used. For diagnostic skin testing, the results are almost immediate, appearing within 15 to 20 minutes. For therapeutic immunotherapy, the process is much slower. Most patients begin to notice a decrease in their allergy symptoms during the 'maintenance phase,' which usually occurs 6 to 12 months after starting the injections. For the best long-term results, the treatment is typically continued for three to five years. It is a long-term commitment to modifying the immune system's response.
Yes, you can stop taking Solanum Dulcamara Top injections at any time without experiencing withdrawal symptoms like those seen with some medications. However, stopping the treatment before the recommended three-to-five-year course is finished usually means that your allergy symptoms will eventually return to their previous severity. If you miss doses for a few weeks, your doctor will likely need to reduce your next dose for safety reasons. You should always discuss your reasons for wanting to stop the treatment with your allergist to see if a different schedule or approach might work better for you.
If you miss a scheduled immunotherapy injection, you should contact your allergy clinic as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not simply wait for your next regular appointment. The safety of the next dose depends on the interval of time since your last injection. If you are only a few days late, your doctor may give you the planned dose. However, if several weeks have passed, the doctor will likely need to reduce the dose to prevent a reaction. Consistency is key to both the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that Solanum Dulcamara Top or other allergenic extracts cause weight gain. These extracts are biological proteins that work on the immune system and do not affect metabolic rate or appetite in the way that some medications, like oral steroids or certain antidepressants, might. If you experience weight changes while on immunotherapy, it is likely due to other factors, such as lifestyle changes or other medications. You should discuss any concerns about weight with your primary care physician.
Solanum Dulcamara Top can be taken alongside many medications, but there are critical exceptions. You must tell your doctor if you are taking beta-blockers (often used for blood pressure or heart issues), as these can make allergic reactions much more dangerous and difficult to treat. Antihistamines should be stopped several days before skin testing because they can cause false-negative results. Most other routine medications for cholesterol, diabetes, or thyroid issues do not interact with the extract. Always provide your allergist with a complete and updated list of all drugs and supplements you are taking.
The concept of 'generic' vs. 'brand name' is different for allergenic extracts like Solanum Dulcamara Top than for chemical pills. Because these are complex biological products, each manufacturer's extract is slightly different. While several different laboratories may produce a 'Solanum Dulcamara' extract, they are not considered interchangeable generics. If your doctor switches you from one manufacturer's vial to another, they will often reduce the dose initially to ensure your safety, as the potency of non-standardized extracts can vary between different producers.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Solanum Dulcamara Top)
> Warning: Stop taking Solanum Dulcamara Top and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms of anaphylaxis.
There is no evidence that Solanum Dulcamara Top causes long-term organ damage or chronic disease. The primary long-term risk is the potential for 'sensitization' to other components within the extract, although the goal of therapy is the opposite (desensitization). Prolonged use of immunotherapy is generally associated with a long-term reduction in allergy symptoms and a decreased risk of developing asthma.
According to FDA labeling standards for allergenic extracts, Solanum Dulcamara Top carries a significant warning regarding Anaphylaxis.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Even a 'large local reaction' should be reported, as it may be a precursor to a systemic reaction in the next dose.
Patients with symptomatic or unstable asthma should not receive Solanum Dulcamara Top injections. If a patient's FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume) is significantly below their baseline, the injection should be postponed, as they are at a much higher risk for a fatal respiratory reaction.
Healthcare providers must ensure the needle is not in a blood vessel (aspiration) before injecting. Intravenous injection of allergenic extracts can cause immediate, catastrophic anaphylaxis.
While taking Solanum Dulcamara Top, the following monitoring is typically required:
Patients are generally advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery immediately after an injection, especially if they feel lightheaded or if they have had to take an antihistamine for a local reaction, as these can cause drowsiness.
Alcohol consumption should be avoided on the day of an injection. Alcohol causes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which can increase the rate of allergen absorption and potentially trigger or worsen a systemic reaction.
If a patient experiences a severe systemic reaction, the healthcare provider will re-evaluate the risk-benefit ratio. In many cases, the dose will be significantly reduced, or the treatment may be discontinued entirely. There is no 'withdrawal syndrome' associated with stopping allergenic extracts, but the patient's allergy symptoms will likely return to their baseline levels over time.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Solanum Dulcamara Top.
Solanum Dulcamara Top will directly affect the results of Allergy Skin Tests and Serum IgE (RAST/ImmunoCAP) tests. It does not typically interfere with standard blood chemistry, liver function tests, or CBC results. However, a temporary increase in peripheral eosinophil counts may be observed during the build-up phase of immunotherapy.
Most interactions with Solanum Dulcamara Top are pharmacodynamic. For example, the interaction with beta-blockers is not about the drug levels in the blood, but about the competing effects on the beta-adrenergic receptors that control airway diameter and blood pressure. The clinical consequence is a reduced ability to survive a severe allergic event.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
These conditions require a careful risk-benefit analysis by the allergist:
Patients allergic to Solanum Dulcamara Top may show cross-sensitivity to other members of the Solanaceae family. This includes:
If a patient has a known severe allergy to these foods, the healthcare provider will use extra caution when testing with Solanum Dulcamara Top.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history before prescribing Solanum Dulcamara Top.
Immunotherapy with Solanum Dulcamara Top is generally not recommended for children under the age of 5, primarily because of the difficulty in communicating symptoms of an impending systemic reaction. For children over 5, it can be highly effective in preventing the 'allergic march' (the progression from hay fever to asthma). Growth and development do not appear to be affected by allergenic extracts.
Patients over the age of 65 require special consideration. They are more likely to have underlying cardiovascular disease, which increases the risk of complications if a systemic reaction occurs. Additionally, many elderly patients are on polypharmacy (multiple medications), increasing the risk of drug interactions. Dose adjustments are not standard, but a more conservative approach to treatment is usually taken.
As noted previously, renal impairment does not significantly alter the pharmacokinetics of Solanum Dulcamara Top. However, patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) may have altered immune function, and the risks of immunotherapy should be weighed against the potential benefits.
There are no specific guidelines for Solanum Dulcamara Top in patients with hepatic impairment. Clinical judgment should be used to ensure the patient is stable enough to tolerate potential emergency treatments (like corticosteroids) that are metabolized by the liver.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment and close monitoring by an allergy specialist.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | N/A (Local administration) |
| Protein Binding | High (to IgE and IgG antibodies) |
| Half-life | Variable (Days for proteins, months for immune effect) |
| Tmax | 15-30 minutes (Local peak) |
| Metabolism | Tissue Proteolysis |
| Excretion | Lymphatic clearance |