mixed grass pollens allergen extract

What is the most important information I should know about mixed grass pollens allergen extract?

You may not be able to use mixed grass pollens allergen extract if you have certain medical conditions, such as breathing problems, heart disease, or high blood pressure. This medicine also may not be safe for you if you take certain medicines.

Mixed grass pollens allergen extract may cause a severe allergic reaction. Your doctor will give you the first dose and watch you closely to make sure you do not have a reaction.

Your doctor may also prescribe epinephrine (Epi-Pen) to keep with you in case you ever have an allergic reaction to mixed grass pollens allergen extract.

What is mixed grass pollens allergen extract?

Mixed grass pollens allergen extract is made from certain pollens that can cause seasonal allergies (hay fever).

Mixed grass pollens allergen extract is used to help your body develop an immunity to certain pollens that can cause allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. This medicine is for use in adults up to age 65, and children who are at least 10 years old.

This medicine will not provide immediate relief from allergy symptoms.

Mixed grass pollens allergen extract may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking mixed grass pollens allergen extract?

• severe or uncontrolled asthma; or
• a history of allergic reaction that affected your esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth and stomach) and caused heartburn or trouble swallowing.

To make sure mixed grass pollens allergen extract is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:

• breathing problems;
• heart disease;
• uncontrolled high blood pressure;
• mouth sores, swollen gums, or other wounds or irritations inside your mouth;
• if you take an antidepressant or migraine headache medicine; or
• if you take medicine to treat heart problems, high blood pressure, or a prostate disorder.

FDA pregnancy category B. Mixed grass pollens allergen extract is not expected to harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

This medicine is not for use in people older than 65.

How should I take mixed grass pollens allergen extract?

Your doctor may perform an allergy skin test or blood test to make sure you are allergic to the specific pollen contained in this medicine.

Follow all directions on your prescription label. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Your doctor may want to give your first dose of this medicine in a clinic setting. You should be watched closely for at least 30 minutes after taking your first dose, to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction.

To take the sublingual tablet:

• Keep the tablet in its blister pack until you are ready to take it. Open the package and peel back the foil.
• Use dry hands to remove the tablet and place it in your mouth.
• Place the sublingual tablet under your tongue and allow it to dissolve completely.
• Do not swallow for at least 1 minute. Do not eat or drink anything for at least 5 minutes.

Mixed grass pollens allergen extract is usually taken once daily throughout allergy season. For best results, start taking this medicine at least 4 months before the start of allergy season.

In some cases, you may need to take mixed grass pollens allergen extract every day all year long, for up to 3 years. Follow your doctor's dosing instructions very carefully.

Your doctor may also prescribe epinephrine (Epi-Pen) to keep with you in case you ever have an allergic reaction to mixed grass pollens allergen extract.

If you need oral surgery or dental work, or if you have a mouth injury or infection, you may need to stop using this medicine until your mouth heals. Tell your doctor if the sublingual tablets cause any mouth irritation.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

What should I avoid while taking mixed grass pollens allergen extract?

Ask your doctor before starting any new medicine or treatments, including allergy shots.

What are the possible side effects of mixed grass pollens allergen extract?

• severe dizziness or a light-headed feeling (like you might pass out);
• fast heart rate;
• stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea;
• hives, itching, flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
• cough, chest tightness, wheezing, trouble breathing; or
• swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• severe mouth or throat irritation;
• breathing problems; or
• choking feeling, chest pain, trouble swallowing.

Common side effects may include:

• pain, swelling, or itching of your mouth or tongue;
• throat irritation;
• cough, sore throat, sinus pain; or
• itching in your ears.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect mixed grass pollens allergen extract?

Other drugs may interact with mixed grass pollens allergen extract, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.

Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist can provide more information about mixed grass pollens allergen extract.