Pollinex R

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.

The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous). If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous) with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous). Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• Diarrhea
• eye irritation
• itching
• mild Hives
• pain or swelling at the site of injection
• rash
• stuffy nose
• swelling
• throat irritation
• vomiting
• wheezing

A serious allergic reaction is much less common and would be most likely to occur at the doctor's office. The doctor is prepared for such an occurrence. A serious allergic reaction could include:

• breathing difficulties
• hives
• itching
• rash
• swelling around throat and tongue area

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous).

POLLINEX-R is an aqueous extract of short ragweed pollen (Ambrosia elatior) chemically modified with glutaraldehyde adsorbed onto tyrosine and then suspended in saline.

Prefilled syringes

Each patient treatment package consists of 4 prefilled sterile syringes each containing 0.5 mL of suspension. Each syringe is labeled as to syringe number and strength in total Protein Nitrogen Units. Contains phenol as preservative.

Vials

Each patient treatment package consists of 4 sterile vials each containing 1 mL of suspension. Each vial is clearly labeled as to vial number and strength in total Protein Nitrogen Units. Contains phenol as preservative.

Do not use Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous) if you:

• are allergic to ragweed vaccines or any ingredients of Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous)
• have previously had a severe anaphylactic reaction to ragweed vaccine
• do not have a skin test reaction and clinical sensitivity to ragweed
• have any medical conditions that may result in uncontrolled bleeding
• have unstable or severe chronic seasonal Asthma
• have a disease or condition which would make it difficult to treat a possible anaphylactic reaction (e.g., chronic heart or lung disease)
• have problems with your immune system
• are taking a medication in the β-blocker family

There may be an interaction between modified ragweed tyrosine adsorbate and the following:

• beta-adrenergic blockers (e.g., Atenolol, Propranolol, Sotalol)
• angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs; e.g., Captopril, Enalapril, Ramipril)
• immunosuppressants
• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (M.O.S. e.g., Moclobemide, Phenelzine, Rasagiline, Selegiline, Tranylcypromine)
• tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline)

Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the Nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. In many cases, interactions are intended or are managed by close monitoring. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous).

Allergic Reactions: Some people who take Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous) experience a Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction). Inform your doctor about any previous adverse reactions you have had to medications, especially medications used to treat allergies. Your doctor will likely want you to remain in the office for at least 30 minutes after receiving the injection, to ensure that you are able to access appropriate medical care immediately, if Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous) causes a severe allergic reaction.

Contact your doctor at once if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching, difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat.

Asthma: Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous) may cause asthma symptoms or cause existing asthma symptoms to worsen. If you have a history of asthma, discuss with your doctor how Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous), and whether any special monitoring is needed. People with uncontrolled asthma should not use Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous).

Preparation: You should not eat a heavy meal just before receiving the injection. Your doctor may want you to take an antihistamine about one hour before your appointment.

Pregnancy: Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous) should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous), contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: It is not know if Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous) passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous) have not been established for children under 8 years of age.

Seniors: The safety and effectiveness of using Pollinex R (Allergens-desensitization-miscellaneous) have not been established for seniors, and those over 60 years of age may have a greater risk of impaired heart or lung function.