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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]
Acer Saccharinum Pollen extract is a non-standardized allergenic biological product used for the diagnosis and treatment of IgE-mediated allergic conditions, specifically those triggered by the Silver Maple tree. It is primarily utilized in allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots).
Name
Acer Saccharinum Pollen
Raw Name
ACER SACCHARINUM POLLEN
Category
Non-Standardized Pollen Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Drug Count
9
Variant Count
10
Last Verified
February 17, 2026
About Acer Saccharinum Pollen
Acer Saccharinum Pollen extract is a non-standardized allergenic biological product used for the diagnosis and treatment of IgE-mediated allergic conditions, specifically those triggered by the Silver Maple tree. It is primarily utilized in allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots).
Detailed information about Acer Saccharinum Pollen
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any medication containing Acer Saccharinum Pollen.
Acer Saccharinum Pollen, commonly known as Silver Maple pollen, is a biological substance utilized in the field of clinical allergy and immunology. It belongs to a broad pharmacological class known as Non-Standardized Pollen Allergenic Extracts [EPC]. These extracts are prepared from the pollen grains of the Acer saccharinum tree, a species native to eastern and central North America. The primary clinical utility of this extract lies in its application for allergen immunotherapy (AIT) and diagnostic skin testing.
In pharmacological terms, Acer Saccharinum Pollen acts as an immunomodulator. It is not a drug in the traditional sense (like a chemical compound that binds to a specific receptor to block or stimulate a response) but is rather a biological extract containing complex proteins and glycoproteins that are recognized by the human immune system. The FDA regulates these extracts under the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER). Unlike 'standardized' extracts, which have a defined potency based on a reference standard (such as Bioequivalent Allergy Units), non-standardized extracts like Silver Maple are characterized by their Protein Nitrogen Unit (PNU) content or a weight-to-volume (w/v) ratio. This extract has been a cornerstone of allergy management for decades, providing a path toward long-term desensitization for patients suffering from seasonal allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and allergic conjunctivitis.
The mechanism of action for Acer Saccharinum Pollen extract involves a sophisticated recalibration of the patient's immune system, a process known as hyposensitization or desensitization. In an allergic individual, exposure to Silver Maple pollen triggers a Type I hypersensitivity reaction. This occurs when pollen allergens bind to specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies attached to the surface of mast cells and basophils. This binding causes these cells to degranulate, releasing inflammatory mediators like histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins, which result in the classic symptoms of sneezing, itching, and congestion.
When administered therapeutically through subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), the extract works at the molecular level to shift the immune response from a Th2-cell-dominated profile (which promotes IgE production) to a Th1-cell-dominated or T-regulatory (Treg) cell profile. Over time, the repeated administration of increasing doses of the pollen extract induces the production of 'blocking antibodies,' specifically Immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4). These IgG4 antibodies compete with IgE for the allergen-binding sites. If IgG4 captures the pollen allergen before it can reach the IgE on mast cells, the allergic cascade is prevented. Furthermore, the treatment induces long-term tolerance by suppressing the recruitment of eosinophils and other inflammatory cells to the respiratory mucosa.
Because Acer Saccharinum Pollen is a complex biological mixture of proteins rather than a discrete chemical molecule, its pharmacokinetic profile differs significantly from conventional pharmaceuticals.
The FDA-approved indications for Acer Saccharinum Pollen extract include:
Off-label uses may include experimental protocols for oral immunotherapy, though subcutaneous injection remains the gold standard for this specific extract.
Acer Saccharinum Pollen extract is typically available in the following forms:
> Important: Only your healthcare provider can determine if Acer Saccharinum Pollen is right for your specific condition. The selection of the appropriate concentration and dosing schedule requires specialized training in allergy and immunology.
The dosage for Acer Saccharinum Pollen is highly individualized and must be determined by an allergist based on the patient's sensitivity levels. There is no 'standard' dose for all patients.
Treatment typically begins with a very dilute solution (e.g., 1:100,000 w/v or 1-10 PNU/mL). Injections are usually given once or twice weekly. The dose is incrementally increased—often by 0.05 mL to 0.10 mL increments—until the 'Maintenance Dose' is reached. This phase usually lasts 3 to 6 months.
Once the maximum tolerated dose is reached (the maintenance dose), the frequency of injections is decreased to once every 2 to 4 weeks. Typical maintenance doses range from 0.5 mL of a 1:100 or 1:20 w/v concentration, though this varies significantly between patients.
Acer Saccharinum Pollen extract is generally considered safe and effective for pediatric use in children as young as 5 years old. The dosing protocol for children follows the same escalation principle as adult dosing, though the starting dose may be even more conservative depending on the child's skin test reactivity. Clinical studies suggest that immunotherapy in children can potentially prevent the development of asthma and new sensitizations to other allergens.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for patients with renal impairment, as the allergenic proteins are degraded by proteases rather than relying on renal filtration for active clearance. However, the patient's overall health should be considered if systemic reactions occur.
No dosage adjustments are necessary for hepatic impairment. The liver's metabolic pathways (CYP450) are not involved in the processing of these biological proteins.
Caution is advised in elderly patients, particularly those with underlying cardiovascular disease. The risk of a systemic reaction (anaphylaxis) may be more difficult to manage in this population, especially if they are taking medications like beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors.
If a dose is missed during the build-up phase, the next dose may need to be reduced to ensure safety. If a dose is missed for more than 7-10 days, the allergist may repeat the previous dose or even go back several steps in the escalation schedule. During the maintenance phase, if a dose is missed for more than 4 weeks, the dose is usually reduced. Never attempt 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. This can lead to a severe systemic reaction or anaphylaxis.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions. Do not adjust your dose without medical guidance. The timing and concentration of these injections are critical for safety.
The most frequent side effects associated with Acer Saccharinum Pollen are local reactions at the site of the injection. These are generally considered a normal part of the immune response to the extract.
> Warning: Stop taking Acer Saccharinum Pollen and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms of anaphylaxis.
There are no known long-term 'toxic' side effects of Acer Saccharinum Pollen extract. Unlike many medications, the goal of long-term use is actually to reduce the need for other medications. However, some patients may develop 'Arthus-type' reactions—delayed local swelling that appears 6 to 12 hours after the injection—due to the formation of immune complexes.
Acer Saccharinum Pollen extracts carry a class-wide FDA warning regarding the risk of severe systemic reactions.
Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider. Even a small change in how you feel after an injection can be an important safety signal for your allergist.
Acer Saccharinum Pollen immunotherapy is a high-alert biological treatment. Safety is predicated on strict adherence to administration protocols. Patients must be in their baseline state of health at the time of injection. If you have a fever, a respiratory infection, or an active flare-up of asthma, your injection should be postponed. The potency of the extract can vary between different manufacturers and even between different lots from the same manufacturer; therefore, extreme caution is required when switching vials.
No FDA black box warnings for Acer Saccharinum Pollen specifically, however, it falls under the general warning for all allergenic extracts. The warning states that these products are intended for use only by physicians experienced in administering allergenic extracts and managing the potentially fatal systemic reactions that may result. Patients must be informed of the risks and should be prescribed an epinephrine auto-injector for use in the event of a delayed reaction after leaving the clinic.
Unlike chemical drugs, no routine blood work (like liver or kidney function tests) is required for Acer Saccharinum Pollen. Instead, monitoring is clinical:
Acer Saccharinum Pollen does not typically cause drowsiness. However, if a patient experiences a systemic reaction or receives epinephrine, they should not drive or operate machinery until they have been fully cleared by a medical professional.
While there is no direct chemical interaction with alcohol, it is advised to avoid alcohol consumption for several hours before and after an injection. Alcohol can cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which may theoretically increase the speed of allergen absorption and the risk of a systemic reaction.
Immunotherapy is typically continued for 3 to 5 years. Stopping the treatment prematurely may result in the return of allergic symptoms. There is no 'withdrawal syndrome' associated with stopping Acer Saccharinum Pollen, but the immunological benefits will gradually wane if the maintenance phase is not completed.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Acer Saccharinum Pollen.
There are no known direct interactions between Acer Saccharinum Pollen and specific foods. However, patients with Silver Maple allergy may occasionally experience Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS). This is a cross-reactivity where the immune system confuses proteins in certain fruits (like apples, peaches, or cherries) with the maple pollen proteins. Eating these foods immediately before an injection may increase the body's overall reactivity.
There is no documented evidence of interactions with St. John's Wort, ginkgo, or other common supplements. However, any supplement that affects the immune system (like high-dose echinacea) should be discussed with your allergist, as it could theoretically interfere with the desensitization process.
Acer Saccharinum Pollen injections will specifically affect the results of:
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. A complete list is vital for your safety during immunotherapy.
Patients allergic to Acer saccharinum (Silver Maple) are almost always cross-sensitive to other members of the Acer genus, including Acer saccharum (Sugar Maple) and Acer rubrum (Red Maple). If you have had a severe reaction to any maple tree extract, you must inform your doctor before beginning treatment with Silver Maple pollen.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history before prescribing Acer Saccharinum Pollen. A thorough risk-benefit analysis is essential.
Acer Saccharinum Pollen is classified as FDA Pregnancy Category C. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. The primary risk is not the extract itself, but the potential for a systemic reaction (anaphylaxis) in the mother, which can cause uterine contractions and fetal distress due to oxygen deprivation.
It is not known whether the allergenic components of Acer Saccharinum Pollen are excreted in human milk. However, because these are large proteins that are degraded in the mother's tissues, it is highly unlikely that they would reach the infant in any significant or harmful amount. Immunotherapy is generally considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Acer Saccharinum Pollen is approved for use in children. Clinical data suggest that immunotherapy can be particularly beneficial in children by preventing the 'allergic march'—the progression from hay fever to asthma. The primary concern in pediatrics is the child's ability to cooperate with the injection and wait time, and their ability to describe early symptoms of a reaction. Most allergists wait until a child is at least 5 years old.
Patients over the age of 65 require careful screening. The risk of cardiovascular events during a systemic reaction is higher in this age group. Additionally, the presence of comorbid conditions and the use of multiple medications (polypharmacy) increase the complexity of treatment. Renal and hepatic function changes associated with age do not affect the metabolism of the extract, but overall frailty may influence the decision to proceed with immunotherapy.
There are no specific guidelines for renal impairment. The allergenic proteins are not cleared by the kidneys in their active form. However, if a patient is on dialysis, the timing of the injection should be coordinated with the dialysis schedule to ensure the patient is stable.
No dosage adjustments are needed for patients with liver disease. The liver is not the primary site of metabolism for these biological extracts. However, severe liver disease may affect the body's ability to maintain blood pressure during an allergic reaction, requiring extra caution.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Your doctor will weigh the benefits of allergy relief against the specific risks of your life stage.
Acer Saccharinum Pollen extract works by inducing peripheral T-cell tolerance. The primary molecular targets are the T-lymphocytes and B-lymphocytes. Upon repeated exposure to the allergen via the subcutaneous route, there is an induction of T-regulatory (Treg) cells that produce IL-10 and TGF-beta. These cytokines suppress the Th2-driven allergic response. Furthermore, B-cells are stimulated to switch from IgE production to IgG4 production. IgG4 acts as a 'blocking antibody' that prevents the allergen from cross-linking IgE on the surface of mast cells.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | Low (Subcutaneous absorption is slow and localized) |
| Protein Binding | N/A (Interacts with IgE and IgG antibodies) |
| Half-life | Hours to Days (Biological degradation of proteins) |
| Tmax | 1 - 4 hours (For systemic absorption of allergens) |
| Metabolism | Tissue Proteases |
| Excretion | Renal (as amino acids/peptides) |
Acer Saccharinum Pollen is a member of the Allergenic Extracts class. It is further categorized as a Non-Standardized Pollen Extract. Related medications include extracts for other trees (e.g., Oak, Birch), grasses (e.g., Timothy, Bermuda), and weeds (e.g., Ragweed).
Common questions about Acer Saccharinum Pollen
Acer Saccharinum Pollen extract is primarily used for the diagnosis and treatment of seasonal allergies caused by the Silver Maple tree. In diagnostic settings, it is used in skin prick tests to confirm if a patient is allergic to this specific pollen. For treatment, it is used in allergen immunotherapy, commonly known as allergy shots, to help the body build a tolerance to the allergen. This is particularly helpful for patients who suffer from hay fever or allergic asthma that is not well-controlled by standard medications. The goal is to reduce the severity of symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion over the long term.
The most common side effects are localized reactions at the site of the injection, occurring in nearly all patients at some point during treatment. These include redness, itching, and a small amount of swelling or a 'wheal' around the injection area. These symptoms usually appear within minutes and resolve within a few hours. Some patients may also experience a 'delayed' local reaction, where the arm becomes swollen and itchy several hours after the shot. While these local reactions are bothersome, they are generally not dangerous and can be managed with ice packs or antihistamines. However, any large reaction should be reported to your doctor before your next dose.
It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol for several hours before and after receiving an Acer Saccharinum Pollen injection. Alcohol causes vasodilation, which is the widening of your blood vessels, and this could theoretically cause the allergen to be absorbed into your system more quickly. This rapid absorption might increase the risk of a systemic allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. Furthermore, alcohol can impair your ability to recognize the early warning signs of a serious reaction. For your safety, it is best to remain completely sober on the days you receive your immunotherapy injections. Always discuss your lifestyle habits with your allergist.
The safety of starting Acer Saccharinum Pollen immunotherapy during pregnancy has not been established, and it is generally avoided because a severe allergic reaction could harm the fetus by reducing oxygen levels. However, if a woman is already on a stable maintenance dose and is tolerating the shots well, most allergists will continue the treatment throughout pregnancy. The dose is typically not increased during this time to minimize the risk of a reaction. If you are planning to become pregnant or find out you are pregnant while on allergy shots, you must inform your allergist immediately. They will perform a risk-benefit analysis tailored to your specific situation.
Allergen immunotherapy is not a quick fix and requires patience, as the immune system takes time to retrain itself. Most patients do not see a significant improvement in their allergy symptoms during the initial 'build-up' phase, which lasts about 3 to 6 months. You will likely begin to notice a reduction in symptoms during your first or second allergy season after reaching the maintenance dose. For the best and most long-lasting results, the treatment is usually continued for 3 to 5 years. If you do not see any improvement after one year of maintenance therapy, your doctor may re-evaluate the treatment plan. Consistency is key to the success of this therapy.
Yes, you can stop taking Acer Saccharinum Pollen injections suddenly without experiencing any physical withdrawal symptoms, as it is not an addictive substance. However, stopping the treatment before the recommended 3-to-5-year course is finished will likely result in the return of your allergy symptoms over time. The long-term 'tolerance' that immunotherapy provides is built up gradually, and stopping early prevents the immune system from fully cementing these changes. If you need to stop due to travel, cost, or side effects, discuss a plan with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your schedule rather than stopping the treatment entirely.
If you miss a dose of Acer Saccharinum Pollen, you should contact your allergist's office to reschedule as soon as possible. Do not try to compensate by taking a higher dose later. The safety of the next dose depends on how much time has passed since your last injection. If only a few days have passed, you may be able to continue with your scheduled dose increase. However, if several weeks have passed, your doctor will likely need to reduce the dose to ensure you do not have a reaction. If you miss multiple doses during the build-up phase, you might even need to restart from a lower concentration.
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that Acer Saccharinum Pollen extract causes weight gain. Unlike systemic corticosteroids (like prednisone) which are sometimes used for severe allergies and can cause weight changes, allergenic extracts are biological proteins that work locally on the immune system. They do not affect your metabolism, appetite, or fat distribution. If you experience weight gain while on immunotherapy, it is likely due to other factors such as lifestyle changes, other medications, or an unrelated medical condition. You should discuss any unexpected weight changes with your primary care physician to identify the underlying cause.
Acer Saccharinum Pollen can be taken alongside most common medications, but there are some critical exceptions. You must inform your doctor if you are taking beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or MAO inhibitors, as these can make allergic reactions more dangerous or harder to treat. Most patients continue to take their daily allergy medications, like antihistamines or nasal sprays, while receiving shots. In fact, some doctors recommend taking an antihistamine on the day of the shot to reduce local swelling. Always provide your allergist with a complete list of every medication and supplement you use to ensure there are no dangerous interactions.
The concept of 'generic' vs. 'brand name' is slightly different for allergenic extracts like Acer Saccharinum Pollen compared to pills. These are biological products, and while several different companies (such as Greer, ALK, or HollisterStier) manufacture Silver Maple pollen extracts, they are not considered interchangeable generics. Each manufacturer has its own proprietary method for extracting the proteins. Therefore, if your doctor switches the brand of extract they use, they will often reduce your dose slightly to ensure safety, as the potency might differ between brands. Always ensure your treatment is managed by a qualified specialist who understands these differences.