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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Brand Name
Illicium Verum
Generic Name
Illicium Verum
Active Ingredient
Star AniseCategory
Non-Standardized Food Allergenic Extract [EPC]
Variants
8
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| 200 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1462 |
| 1 [hp_M]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1464 |
| 1 [hp_Q]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1465 |
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Illicium Verum, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| 12 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1459 |
| 500 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1463 |
| 30 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1460 |
| 100 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1461 |
| 6 [hp_C]/1 | PELLET | ORAL | 37662-1458 |
Detailed information about Illicium Verum
Star Anise (Illicium verum) is utilized in clinical medicine primarily as a non-standardized food allergenic extract for the diagnosis and treatment of IgE-mediated hypersensitivity. It belongs to the class of non-standardized plant allergenic extracts.
Dosage for Star Anise allergenic extract is highly individualized and depends entirely on the purpose of the administration (diagnosis vs. treatment) and the patient's level of sensitivity.
Star Anise allergenic extracts can be used in children, but extreme caution is required.
No specific dosage adjustments are required for renal impairment when performing diagnostic skin testing, as systemic absorption is negligible. However, in patients with end-stage renal disease, skin reactivity may be diminished, leading to potential false-negative results.
No adjustments are typically necessary for hepatic impairment. The metabolism of the small protein loads in diagnostic extracts is unlikely to be affected by liver function.
Elderly patients may have reduced skin turgor and diminished mast cell responsiveness. Clinicians may need to interpret 'wheal' sizes more conservatively. Furthermore, elderly patients are more likely to be on medications (like beta-blockers) that complicate the treatment of a potential allergic reaction.
Star Anise allergenic extract is never 'taken' by the patient in the traditional sense; it is always administered by a healthcare professional.
In the context of diagnostic testing, a 'missed dose' simply means the test must be rescheduled. For patients undergoing immunotherapy:
An 'overdose' in the context of allergenic extracts refers to the administration of too much allergen, leading to a systemic reaction (anaphylaxis).
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not attempt to use these extracts outside of a clinical setting.
The most frequent side effects associated with Star Anise allergenic extracts are localized to the site of administration. These are often expected as part of the diagnostic process.
Star Anise allergenic extract is intended for use only by clinicians experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of allergic diseases. The primary risk associated with its use is the induction of a systemic allergic reaction. Before administration, a thorough medical history must be taken, specifically focusing on previous reactions to spices, current medications, and respiratory status.
No FDA black box warnings specifically for Star Anise; however, as noted in the side effects section, the entire class of allergenic extracts is subject to stringent safety warnings regarding anaphylaxis. The FDA requires that these extracts be used only by those trained to manage life-threatening emergencies.
Star Anise allergenic extracts are categorized as Pregnancy Category C. This means that animal reproduction studies have not been conducted, and it is not known whether the extract can cause fetal harm. The primary concern during pregnancy is not the extract itself, but the risk of anaphylaxis. If the mother experiences a severe allergic reaction, it can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to placental hypoperfusion (reduced blood flow to the baby) and fetal distress. Consequently, most allergists defer diagnostic testing and never start new immunotherapy during pregnancy.
It is not known if the allergenic proteins in Star Anise extract are excreted in human milk. However, because these are large proteins that are rapidly degraded in the maternal circulation, the risk to a nursing infant is considered extremely low. The primary consideration remains the mother's safety and the potential for a systemic reaction that could interfere with breastfeeding.
Star Anise extracts are used in the pediatric population for the diagnosis of food allergies.
Star Anise allergenic extract acts as a specific antigen that targets IgE antibodies fixed to the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI) on the surface of mast cells and basophils. Upon administration, the allergenic proteins (antigens) cross-link two or more IgE molecules. This cross-linking triggers a signal transduction cascade within the mast cell, leading to the influx of calcium and the subsequent release of pre-formed mediators like histamine and heparin, as well as the de novo synthesis of leukotrienes and cytokines. This is a Type I Hypersensitivity reaction.
Common questions about Illicium Verum
In a clinical setting, Star Anise is used as an allergenic extract to diagnose food allergies. Healthcare providers, specifically allergists, use it to perform skin prick tests or intradermal tests on patients who suspect they are allergic to the spice. This helps confirm whether the patient's immune system produces IgE antibodies against Star Anise proteins. In some specialized cases, it may be used in immunotherapy to desensitize a patient, though this is less common for spices than for environmental allergens. It is not used to treat any other medical conditions like infections or digestive issues in this extract form.
The most common side effects are localized to the area where the test was performed. Patients typically experience a 'wheal and flare' reaction, which looks like a raised, itchy bump (similar to a mosquito bite) surrounded by a patch of red skin. This is a normal part of a positive test result and usually disappears within an hour or two. Some patients may also experience localized swelling or itching that lasts for the remainder of the day. Systemic side effects are rare but can occur, which is why testing is always done under medical supervision.
It is strongly recommended to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after being tested with Star Anise allergenic extract. Alcohol causes vasodilation, which means it widens your blood vessels and increases blood flow to the skin. This can make a skin test reaction appear larger than it actually is, leading to a false-positive result. Furthermore, alcohol can increase the risk or severity of a systemic allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) if one were to occur. Always follow your doctor's specific pre-test instructions regarding food and drink.
Allergy testing with Star Anise extract is generally avoided during pregnancy unless it is absolutely necessary for the mother's immediate health. While the extract itself is not known to be a toxin to the fetus, the risk of a systemic allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) in the mother is a major concern. Anaphylaxis can cause a dangerous drop in the mother's blood pressure, which can reduce the oxygen supply to the baby. Most doctors will wait until after the baby is born to perform any non-urgent allergy testing or to start new allergy shots.
When used for diagnostic skin testing, the reaction to Star Anise extract is very rapid. The 'wheal and flare' reaction usually begins to appear within 5 to 10 minutes after the skin is pricked. The reaction typically reaches its maximum size between 15 and 20 minutes, which is when the doctor or nurse will measure the result. If the extract is being used for immunotherapy (allergy shots), it takes much longer to see an effect; patients usually require several months of weekly injections before they begin to develop a tolerance to the allergen.
Since Star Anise allergenic extract is administered by a doctor for testing or as part of an injection schedule, there is no risk of 'withdrawal' if you stop. If you are undergoing a series of allergy shots (immunotherapy) and stop suddenly, the only consequence is that you will lose the progress you made toward becoming desensitized to the spice. Your allergy symptoms would likely return to their previous level of severity. You should always discuss your treatment plan and any decision to stop therapy with your allergist to ensure it is done safely.
If you miss an appointment for a diagnostic skin test, you simply need to reschedule it with your doctor's office. If you are on an immunotherapy (allergy shot) schedule and miss a dose, you should contact your allergist immediately. Depending on how much time has passed since your last injection, the doctor may give you the same dose, or they may need to reduce the dose slightly for your safety. Missing too many doses in a row may require you to restart the 'build-up' phase of your treatment from a lower concentration.
There is no clinical evidence to suggest that Star Anise allergenic extracts cause weight gain. The amount of extract used in skin testing is microscopic, and even in long-term immunotherapy, the protein load is far too small to affect metabolism or body weight. If you experience weight gain while undergoing allergy treatment, it is likely due to other factors, such as the use of oral corticosteroids for asthma or other unrelated health conditions. Always discuss any unexpected weight changes with your healthcare provider.
Star Anise extracts can interact with several types of medications, which is why a full medication list is required before testing. Antihistamines are the most common interaction; they block the skin's reaction and must be stopped several days before testing. More seriously, medications like beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors can make an allergic reaction more dangerous or harder to treat. Your doctor will provide a specific list of medications to avoid before your appointment. Do not stop taking any prescribed medication without first consulting the doctor who prescribed it.
The concept of 'generic' vs. 'brand name' is slightly different for allergenic extracts. Star Anise extract is a non-standardized biological product. Different laboratories may produce their own versions of the extract, but they are not considered interchangeable in the same way generic pills are. Each manufacturer's extract may have slightly different protein concentrations. Therefore, if you are undergoing treatment, your doctor will usually try to stick with the same manufacturer's product to ensure the dosing remains consistent and safe throughout your therapy.
> Warning: Stop the procedure and call for emergency assistance immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms of anaphylaxis:
There are no known long-term side effects associated with the one-time diagnostic use of Star Anise extracts. For those receiving long-term immunotherapy, the primary risk is the cumulative risk of repeated systemic reactions. There is no evidence that allergenic extracts cause cancer, autoimmune diseases, or chronic organ damage.
While Star Anise extracts specifically may not carry an individual black box warning in all jurisdictions, the class of Allergenic Extracts generally carries a significant warning regarding the risk of severe anaphylaxis.
Summary of Warning: Allergenic extracts can cause severe life-threatening systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Patients should only receive these products in a healthcare setting where emergency equipment and trained personnel are immediately available. Patients with unstable asthma or those taking beta-blockers may be at increased risk for severe outcomes. All patients must be observed for at least 30 minutes following administration.
Report any unusual or persistent symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately.
Generally, Star Anise extracts do not impair the ability to drive. However, if a patient experiences a vasovagal reaction (fainting) or a systemic allergic reaction, they should not drive until they are fully recovered and cleared by a physician.
Alcohol should be avoided for 24 hours before and after testing. Alcohol can increase peripheral blood flow (vasodilation), which may potentially enhance the absorption of the allergen or exacerbate the severity of a wheal-and-flare reaction, leading to inaccurate results.
There is no withdrawal syndrome associated with Star Anise extracts. If a patient is undergoing immunotherapy and decides to stop, they simply cease receiving the injections. However, the allergic sensitivity will likely return to its baseline level over time.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, especially respiratory and heart problems, with your healthcare provider before starting Star Anise testing.
Star Anise extracts do not typically interfere with standard blood chemistry or hematology tests. However, they are used specifically to correlate with Serum IgE (ImmunoCAP) results. If a skin test is positive but the serum test is negative, the clinician must use clinical judgment to determine the true allergic status.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, especially those for blood pressure or allergies.
Patients should be aware of potential cross-sensitivity with other members of the Illicium genus and the broader Apiaceae family. There is also documented cross-reactivity between star anise and certain tree pollens (like birch), a phenomenon known as Pollen-Food Allergy Syndrome.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including your current respiratory health, before prescribing or administering Star Anise extract.
In patients over 65, several factors must be considered:
Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) may have altered immune responses. Studies have shown that uremia (buildup of toxins in the blood) can suppress skin test reactivity. While no dose adjustment is needed, the clinician must be aware that a negative skin test in a patient with severe renal impairment may not definitively rule out an allergy.
There are no specific guidelines for Star Anise extract use in patients with hepatic impairment. Given the localized nature of diagnostic testing and the proteinaceous nature of the allergen, liver dysfunction is not expected to significantly alter the drug's profile.
> Important: Special populations, particularly pregnant women and those with heart disease, require a detailed risk-benefit assessment before any allergy testing is performed.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | Negligible (Local) / Variable (SCIT) |
| Protein Binding | N/A (Antigen-Antibody Binding) |
| Half-life | Minutes to Hours (Proteins) |
| Tmax | 15-20 Minutes (Skin Reaction) |
| Metabolism | Tissue Proteases |
| Excretion | Renal (Metabolites) |
Star Anise belongs to the Allergenic Extracts class. It is further sub-classified as a non-standardized food extract. Related medications include extracts for other spices (fennel, cumin) and common food allergens (peanut, egg, milk extracts).