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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Sticta Pulmonaria
Brand Name
Sticta Pulmonaria
Generic Name
Sticta Pulmonaria
Active Ingredient
Lobaria PulmonariaCategory
Standardized Insect Venom Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Variants
8
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1598 |
| 12 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1599 |
| 1 [hp_M]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1604 |
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Sticta Pulmonaria, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| 500 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1603 |
| 30 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1600 |
| 200 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1602 |
| 1 [hp_Q]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1605 |
| 100 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1601 |
Detailed information about Sticta Pulmonaria
Lobaria Pulmonaria, commonly known as Tree Lungwort, is a lichen-derived biological agent primarily utilized in non-standardized plant and fungal allergenic extracts for the diagnosis and treatment of specific hypersensitivity reactions.
Dosage for Lobaria Pulmonaria allergenic extract is highly individualized and must be determined by a qualified allergist based on the patient's sensitivity levels. There is no 'standard' dose for all patients.
Typically, treatment begins with a very dilute solution (e.g., 0.05 mL of a 1:10,000 w/v dilution). Injections are administered once or twice weekly. The dose is incrementally increased (e.g., 0.1 mL, 0.2 mL, 0.4 mL) until the patient reaches the 'Maintenance Dose.' This phase usually lasts 3 to 6 months.
Once the maximum tolerated dose is reached, the frequency of injections is decreased to once every 2 to 4 weeks. A common maintenance dose range is 0.5 mL of a 1:100 or 1:10 w/v concentration, depending on the manufacturer's specific extract potency.
Lobaria Pulmonaria extracts may be used in children, typically those aged 5 years and older. The dosing schedule is generally similar to adult dosing but may require more cautious increments. Use in children under 5 is rare and must be carefully weighed against the risk of systemic reactions and the child's ability to communicate symptoms of anaphylaxis.
No specific dosage adjustments are typically required for renal impairment, as the protein load is minimal. However, patients with severe renal disease should be monitored for overall systemic stability.
No adjustments are necessary for hepatic impairment. The metabolism of the extract is primarily proteolytic and does not involve the cytochrome P450 system.
Elderly patients (over 65) should be evaluated for cardiovascular stability before starting immunotherapy. If the patient is taking beta-blockers for hypertension or heart disease, immunotherapy with Lobaria Pulmonaria may be contraindicated due to the risk of refractory anaphylaxis.
Lobaria Pulmonaria extracts are administered via subcutaneous injection (usually in the posterior aspect of the upper arm). They are NEVER administered intravenously, as this can cause immediate, life-threatening anaphylaxis.
If a dose is missed during the build-up phase, the next dose may need to be reduced to ensure safety. If several doses are missed, the physician may recommend restarting the titration from a lower concentration. Do not 'double up' on doses to catch up.
An overdose of Lobaria Pulmonaria extract usually manifests as an immediate systemic allergic reaction or a massive local reaction. Symptoms include hives, swelling of the throat, wheezing, and low blood pressure.
Emergency Measures:
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose without medical guidance.
Most patients receiving Lobaria Pulmonaria extracts will experience some form of local reaction. These are generally not dangerous but can be uncomfortable.
Lobaria Pulmonaria is a potent biological agent. It is not a standard medication and should never be self-administered. The primary risk associated with this therapy is a systemic allergic reaction. Patients must be in a stable state of health before receiving an injection. If you are suffering from an acute infection, a fever, or an asthma flare-up, your injection should be postponed.
No FDA black box warnings are specifically unique to Lobaria Pulmonaria beyond the standard class-wide warning for all Allergenic Extracts. The risk of anaphylaxis is the primary concern, requiring administration in a clinical setting with a mandatory 30-minute observation period. According to the FDA, deaths have occurred with allergenic extracts when these protocols were not followed or when administered to patients with severe, uncontrolled asthma.
Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Lobaria Pulmonaria extract in pregnant women. The primary risk to the fetus is not the extract itself, but the potential for maternal anaphylaxis, which can lead to uterine contractions, placental abruption, and fetal hypoxia (lack of oxygen). Clinical guidelines generally recommend against starting a new course of immunotherapy during pregnancy. However, if a patient has already reached the maintenance phase and is tolerating the injections well, the benefit of controlling allergic asthma may outweigh the risks of discontinuation.
It is not known whether the allergenic components of Lobaria Pulmonaria are excreted in human milk. Because these are large proteins that are degraded in the mother's lymphatic system, it is highly unlikely that they would reach the infant in significant amounts or survive the infant's digestive tract. Breastfeeding is generally considered safe during immunotherapy.
Lobaria Pulmonaria is approved for use in children, typically starting at age 5. The primary concern in children is their ability to report early symptoms of a systemic reaction. Younger children may not be able to describe 'throat tightness' or 'impending doom,' which are precursors to anaphylaxis. Pediatric patients must be closely monitored by staff experienced in child-specific emergency care.
Lobaria Pulmonaria extract acts as an immunomodulator. Its primary molecular targets are the High-Affinity IgE Receptor (FcεRI) on mast cells and basophils (during diagnostic testing) and T-cell receptors (during immunotherapy). By introducing small, controlled amounts of the lichen antigens, the therapy induces a state of 'peripheral tolerance.' This involves the expansion of Regulatory T-cells (Tregs) that produce inhibitory cytokines like IL-10. IL-10 suppresses Th2 cells and induces B-cells to switch production from IgE to IgG4, which acts as a blocking antibody.
Common questions about Sticta Pulmonaria
Lobaria Pulmonaria, or Tree Lungwort, is primarily used in the field of allergy and immunology as an allergenic extract. Healthcare providers use it to diagnose specific allergies through skin testing and to treat them using immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots. By exposing the patient to tiny, increasing amounts of the lichen proteins, the immune system learns to become less sensitive to the allergen over time. This can significantly reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma. It is specifically helpful for individuals who have identified lichen or certain fungal sensitivities that cannot be managed by avoidance alone.
The most common side effects are localized to the site of the injection and include redness, itching, and swelling. These reactions occur in nearly all patients at some point during their treatment and are generally considered a normal part of the body's response. Some patients may also experience a 'large local reaction,' where the swelling exceeds the size of a large coin. While uncomfortable, these local effects are usually managed with ice packs or over-the-counter antihistamines. Systemic side effects like tiredness or a mild headache are less common but can occur shortly after the appointment.
It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol for several hours before and after receiving a Lobaria Pulmonaria injection. Alcohol can cause your blood vessels to dilate (expand), which may speed up the absorption of the allergen into your bloodstream and increase the risk of a systemic reaction. Furthermore, alcohol can sometimes worsen the symptoms of an allergic flare-up, such as nasal congestion or hives. While there is no direct chemical interaction between the extract and alcohol, safety is the priority during the observation period. Always consult your allergist regarding your specific lifestyle habits during treatment.
Lobaria Pulmonaria is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C, meaning there is limited data on its safety in pregnant women. The main concern is not that the drug will cause birth defects, but that a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) in the mother could deprive the fetus of oxygen. Because of this risk, doctors almost never start a new course of allergy shots during pregnancy. However, if a woman is already on a stable maintenance dose and is not having reactions, many physicians allow the treatment to continue. This decision is made on a case-by-case basis after a thorough risk-benefit analysis.
Allergenic immunotherapy is a long-term commitment and does not provide immediate relief like an antihistamine or a nasal spray. Most patients begin to notice a reduction in their allergy symptoms during the 'maintenance phase,' which typically starts 3 to 6 months after the first injection. Significant improvement often takes 6 to 12 months of consistent treatment. For the best long-term results and to ensure the allergy does not return, a full course of treatment usually lasts between 3 and 5 years. Your doctor will monitor your progress to decide when it is safe to stop.
Yes, you can stop taking Lobaria Pulmonaria injections suddenly without experiencing withdrawal symptoms, as it is not an addictive medication. However, stopping the treatment prematurely, especially during the first year, will likely result in the return of your original allergy symptoms. The immune system requires long-term, consistent exposure to the extract to achieve lasting desensitization. If you need to stop treatment due to side effects or life changes, discuss it with your allergist. They can help you determine if a slower tapering or a different treatment approach might be better for you.
If you miss a scheduled injection of Lobaria Pulmonaria, you should contact your allergist's office as soon as possible to reschedule. Do not attempt to take an extra dose later to make up for the missed one. Depending on how many weeks have passed since your last shot, your doctor may need to reduce the dose of your next injection to ensure your safety. If too much time has passed (usually more than 4-6 weeks), you might even need to restart from a lower concentration. Consistency is key to the success and safety of allergenic immunotherapy.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that Lobaria Pulmonaria allergenic extracts cause weight gain. Unlike systemic corticosteroids (like prednisone), which are known to affect metabolism and appetite, allergenic extracts are biological proteins that work specifically on the immune system's allergic pathways. The amount of protein injected is extremely small and does not have metabolic or hormonal effects on the body. If you experience weight changes while on this treatment, it is likely due to other factors or medications, and you should discuss this with your primary care physician.
Lobaria Pulmonaria can be taken with many common medications, but there are some critical exceptions. You must inform your doctor if you are taking beta-blockers (often used for heart conditions or migraines), as these can make it very difficult to treat a severe allergic reaction if one occurs. Other medications like ACE inhibitors and MAOIs may also require special consideration. Most standard allergy medications, such as antihistamines and nasal steroids, are safe to use and are often continued during the early stages of immunotherapy. Always provide a full list of your medications to your allergist.
The concept of 'generic' versus 'brand name' is slightly different for allergenic extracts than for standard pills. Lobaria Pulmonaria is a biological product, and various manufacturers produce their own versions of the extract. While they all contain the same lichen proteins, they are 'non-standardized,' meaning the exact potency may vary slightly between different companies. Your allergist will usually stick with one manufacturer's extract for the duration of your treatment to ensure consistency in your dosing. These extracts are typically covered by insurance as biological products rather than generic drugs.
> Warning: Stop taking Lobaria Pulmonaria and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms of anaphylaxis:
There is no evidence that long-term use of Lobaria Pulmonaria extracts (3-5 years) causes organ damage or increases the risk of cancer. The primary long-term effect is the intended modification of the immune system. However, some patients may develop a persistent sensitivity to the injection site or rare subcutaneous nodules.
Lobaria Pulmonaria allergenic extracts can cause severe, life-threatening systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Because of this risk, the following safety protocols must be observed:
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider.
Lobaria Pulmonaria does not typically cause sedation. However, if a patient experiences a vasovagal reaction (fainting) or a mild systemic reaction, they should not drive until they have fully recovered and been cleared by a medical professional.
There is no direct chemical interaction between alcohol and Lobaria Pulmonaria. However, alcohol consumption can cause vasodilation and may theoretically increase the rate of absorption of the extract or worsen the symptoms of a mild allergic reaction. It is generally advised to avoid alcohol for several hours after an injection.
Immunotherapy is typically discontinued after 3 to 5 years of successful treatment. There is no 'withdrawal syndrome' associated with stopping Lobaria Pulmonaria. However, stopping prematurely during the build-up phase will likely result in a return of allergy symptoms.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Lobaria Pulmonaria.
There are no known direct food interactions with Lobaria Pulmonaria. However, patients with 'Oral Allergy Syndrome' (cross-reactivity between pollens/lichens and raw fruits/vegetables) should be cautious about eating known trigger foods immediately before or after an injection, as the cumulative allergen load may lower the threshold for a reaction.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Patients sensitive to Lobaria Pulmonaria may also show cross-sensitivity to other lichens (e.g., Usnea, Evernia prunastri or 'Oakmoss') and certain species of fungi. This is due to shared protein structures or secondary metabolites like usnic acid or atranorin.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history before prescribing Lobaria Pulmonaria.
In patients over 65, the decision to use Lobaria Pulmonaria must involve a careful cardiovascular assessment. The elderly are more likely to have underlying coronary artery disease or hypertension, making them more vulnerable to the effects of both anaphylaxis and the epinephrine used to treat it. Additionally, polypharmacy in the elderly increases the risk of drug interactions.
No dosage adjustments are required for patients with renal impairment. The antigens are biological proteins and do not require renal clearance for their primary therapeutic effect.
No dosage adjustments are required for patients with hepatic impairment. The liver is not significantly involved in the processing of subcutaneous allergenic extracts.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | N/A (Subcutaneous) |
| Protein Binding | Minimal |
| Half-life | Hours (Proteins) |
| Tmax | 1-2 hours (Systemic absorption) |
| Metabolism | Local Proteolysis |
| Excretion | Renal (Metabolites) |
Lobaria Pulmonaria is classified as an Allergenic Extract. It belongs to the same therapeutic family as grass pollen extracts, dust mite extracts, and honeybee venom extracts. It is specifically a 'Non-Standardized' extract, distinguishing it from 'Standardized' extracts like Cat Hair or Short Ragweed which have measured potency units.