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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Brand Name
Mezereum
Generic Name
Mezereum
Active Ingredient
Daphne Mezereum BarkCategory
Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Variants
11
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1848 |
| 30 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1846 |
| 30 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | SUBLINGUAL | 76472-4052 |
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Mezereum, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| 6 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1844 |
| 100 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1847 |
| 1 [hp_M]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1850 |
| 12 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1845 |
| 10 [hp_M]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1851 |
| 200 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | SUBLINGUAL | 76472-4084 |
| 500 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1849 |
| 1 [hp_Q]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1852 |
Detailed information about Mezereum
Daphne Mezereum Bark is a non-standardized plant allergenic extract used in clinical diagnostics and specific therapeutic contexts. It is characterized by its potent irritant properties and complex diterpene ester composition.
The dosage of Daphne Mezereum Bark is highly individualized and depends entirely on the purpose of administration (e.g., diagnostic testing vs. research). For allergenic patch testing, a minute quantity of a non-standardized extract (often diluted to 0.1% or 1% in petrolatum) is applied to the skin.
Daphne Mezereum Bark is generally NOT recommended for use in the pediatric population. Children have thinner skin and a higher surface-area-to-volume ratio, which significantly increases the risk of systemic toxicity and severe local reactions. If a healthcare provider deems it necessary for diagnostic purposes in children, it must be used at significantly higher dilutions and under constant monitoring.
While systemic absorption is low with topical application, patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) should be monitored closely, as any absorbed diterpene esters may have prolonged clearance times. No specific dosage adjustment formulas currently exist for this extract.
Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) may have a reduced capacity to metabolize the diterpene components of the bark. Caution is advised, and the smallest possible diagnostic dose should be used.
Elderly patients often have fragile skin (atrophic skin). The use of Daphne Mezereum Bark in this population requires careful site selection and potentially lower concentrations to avoid excessive ulceration or delayed wound healing.
This substance is strictly for professional administration.
In the context of diagnostic testing, a missed appointment for patch removal or reading (usually at 48 and 72 hours) can lead to inaccurate results. If a dose or reading is missed, contact your healthcare provider immediately to reschedule. Do not attempt to reapply the extract yourself.
Signs of overdose or excessive exposure include:
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose or application method without medical guidance.
Because Daphne Mezereum Bark is a potent irritant, certain local reactions are expected, especially during diagnostic testing. These include:
Daphne Mezereum Bark is a highly bioactive substance. It contains daphnin and mezerein, which are toxic even in small quantities. It should never be used on broken, inflamed, or eczematous skin unless specifically directed by a specialist for diagnostic purposes. Patients with a history of severe reactive airway disease or previous anaphylaxis to botanical extracts must inform their provider before use.
No FDA black box warnings for Daphne Mezereum Bark. However, the substance is recognized as a potent poison if ingested, and its use is restricted to qualified medical professionals.
Daphne Mezereum Bark is classified as Category C (or equivalent). There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted. Because of its potential for systemic toxicity and the risk of inducing an inflammatory cascade that could theoretically affect uterine blood flow or trigger premature labor in sensitive individuals, it should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus.
It is unknown whether the components of Daphne Mezereum Bark are excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from the toxic diterpenes, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to forgo the use of the extract, taking into account the importance of the diagnostic test to the mother.
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established. Use in children is generally discouraged due to the high risk of severe local irritation and potential for systemic toxicity. If required for specialized diagnostic testing, it must be used with extreme caution and at lower concentrations.
Daphne Mezereum Bark operates through several distinct pathways. Its most potent constituent, mezerein, is a tricyclic diterpene ester that acts as a high-affinity agonist for Protein Kinase C (PKC). By binding to the C1 domain of PKC, it triggers a cascade of phosphorylation events that lead to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, histamine from mast cells, and the activation of NF-kappaB.
Additionally, the extract displays Ammonium Ion Binding Activity, which may play a role in modulating cellular nitrogen metabolism in experimental models. Its Calcium Chelating Activity can alter the stability of cell-to-cell junctions (desmosomes) in the skin, facilitating the penetration of the irritant and leading to the characteristic 'separation' of skin layers seen in vesiculation.
The onset of the irritant effect is typically delayed, with erythema appearing within 2-6 hours and peak inflammation (or vesiculation) occurring between 24 and 48 hours. The duration of the effect can last for several days to weeks, depending on the concentration used and the individual's skin sensitivity. Tolerance does not typically develop; in fact, repeated exposure often leads to sensitization (increased reactivity).
Common questions about Mezereum
Daphne Mezereum Bark is primarily used as a diagnostic tool in clinical immunology and allergy testing. Healthcare providers use it as a non-standardized allergenic extract to identify specific hypersensitivity reactions in patients. Because of its potent irritant properties, it can also be used in research to study inflammatory pathways and Protein Kinase C activation. It is not used as a standard treatment for common illnesses due to its high toxicity. Always consult a specialist before undergoing any testing involving this substance.
The most common side effects are localized to the area where the extract is applied. These include intense redness (erythema), severe itching (pruritus), and a sharp burning sensation. In many cases, it may also cause localized swelling or the formation of small blisters. These reactions are often the intended result of a diagnostic test but can be uncomfortable. If the reaction spreads or causes deep sores, you should contact your doctor immediately.
While there is no direct chemical interaction between alcohol and the topical use of Daphne Mezereum Bark, it is generally advised to avoid alcohol during allergy testing. Alcohol acts as a vasodilator, meaning it widens blood vessels and increases blood flow to the skin. This can make the itching and redness at the test site much more severe and may interfere with the doctor's ability to accurately read the test results. Discuss your lifestyle habits with your provider before the procedure.
Daphne Mezereum Bark is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the diagnostic need is critical. There is a lack of comprehensive data regarding its effects on a developing fetus, and the systemic stress of a severe allergic reaction could pose risks. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your healthcare provider so they can weigh the risks and benefits. Most elective allergy testing is postponed until after delivery.
When used for skin testing, the reaction is not immediate. While some initial redness may appear within minutes, the true diagnostic reaction typically develops over 24 to 48 hours. This is known as a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction. Healthcare providers usually schedule a follow-up appointment two to three days after the initial application to accurately interpret the results. Do not wash the area or remove any patches until instructed by your doctor.
Since Daphne Mezereum Bark is typically applied as a single diagnostic dose or a short-term patch, 'stopping' it involves removing the patch and washing the area. There are no withdrawal symptoms like those seen with addictive medications. However, if you are experiencing a severe reaction, the substance must be removed immediately under medical guidance. Never attempt to treat a severe reaction at home without professional advice.
Because this substance is administered by healthcare professionals in a clinical setting, missing a 'dose' usually means missing a scheduled appointment for application or reading. If you miss your appointment, the diagnostic test may be invalid, and you will need to start the process over. Contact your clinic immediately to reschedule. Do not attempt to apply any similar botanical products yourself as a substitute.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that the topical or diagnostic use of Daphne Mezereum Bark causes weight gain. It is not a metabolic or hormonal medication. Any swelling associated with the drug is strictly localized to the site of application and does not reflect a change in body weight. If you experience sudden, generalized weight gain or swelling, you should consult your doctor for a different underlying cause.
Daphne Mezereum Bark can interact with several types of medications, particularly those that affect the immune system. Antihistamines, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants can all interfere with the results of a diagnostic test using this extract. Additionally, beta-blockers can make it harder to treat a severe allergic reaction if one occurs. Always provide your healthcare provider with a full list of your current medications before undergoing testing.
Daphne Mezereum Bark is a naturally derived botanical extract and is not marketed as a 'brand name' or 'generic' pharmaceutical in the traditional sense. It is produced by various specialized laboratories as a non-standardized allergenic extract. While different suppliers may produce the extract, they are all regulated under the same FDA standards for allergenic products. Your clinic will select a high-quality extract for your procedure.
Other drugs with the same active ingredient (Daphne Mezereum Bark)
> Warning: Stop taking Daphne Mezereum Bark and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these.
Prolonged or repeated exposure to Daphne Mezereum Bark can lead to chronic dermatitis and sensitization. In research settings, mezerein (the active component) is known as a tumor promoter in multi-stage carcinogenesis models, meaning it can encourage the growth of existing abnormal cells, although this has not been documented as a risk from a single diagnostic application in humans.
No FDA black box warnings are currently issued for Daphne Mezereum Bark when used as a non-standardized allergenic extract. However, its high toxicity profile necessitates strict adherence to professional handling guidelines. It is categorized as a highly toxic substance in botanical databases.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Topical application for diagnostic purposes typically does not interfere with the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if a systemic allergic reaction occurs, or if antihistamines are administered to treat a reaction, these can cause drowsiness.
There are no direct interactions between topical Daphne Mezereum Bark and alcohol. However, alcohol consumption can cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which might exacerbate the itching and redness at the test site.
In diagnostic testing, the 'discontinuation' involves the removal of the patch or the cessation of the skin prick test. If a severe reaction occurs, the substance must be washed off immediately. There are no withdrawal symptoms associated with this extract.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Daphne Mezereum Bark.
There are no known direct food interactions with topically applied Daphne Mezereum Bark. However, patients should avoid consuming highly allergenic foods they are already sensitive to during the testing period, as this may confound the results of the skin test.
Daphne Mezereum Bark does not typically interfere with standard blood or urine laboratory tests. Its primary interaction is with the interpretation of other skin tests (e.g., TB skin tests or other allergy panels) if applied to the same anatomical region.
For each major interaction, the mechanism involves either pharmacodynamic suppression of the inflammatory response (steroids/antihistamines) or physical alteration of the skin barrier (retinoids). Management involves a 'washout' period where these medications are paused under a doctor's supervision before the extract is used.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Patients sensitive to Daphne Mezereum Bark may also react to other members of the Thymelaeaceae family or to specific diterpene-containing plants like those in the Euphorbiaceae (Spurge) family. This is due to the presence of similar irritant esters like mezerein and phorbol esters.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history before prescribing Daphne Mezereum Bark.
Clinical studies of Daphne Mezereum Bark did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. The increased fragility of geriatric skin is a primary concern.
No specific studies have been performed in patients with renal impairment. However, since the elimination of absorbed components may involve renal excretion, patients with significant kidney disease should be monitored for signs of systemic toxicity following application.
As the liver is the primary site for the metabolism of complex plant esters, hepatic impairment may prolong the presence of these compounds in the system. Use with caution in patients with Child-Pugh Class B or C impairment.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | Low (Topical); High (Mucosal) |
| Protein Binding | Unknown; likely high for mezerein |
| Half-life | Estimated 12-24 hours (systemic) |
| Tmax | 24-48 hours (for local effect) |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (Oxidative) |
| Excretion | Renal and Biliary |
Daphne Mezereum Bark is classified as a Non-Standardized Plant Allergenic Extract [EPC]. It shares clinical space with other botanical irritants and allergens used in patch testing, such as Urushiol (from poison ivy) or Primin (from Primula), though it is significantly more toxic than most common allergens.