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Anthoxanthum Odoratum

Clinical trials are currently underway to assess the effectiveness of a drug containing Anthoxanthum Odoratum, commonly known as sweet vernal grass, in treating allergies. This study focuses on using a mixture of grass pollens, including Anthoxanthum Odoratum, in a skin prick test solution to diagnose and potentially treat moderate to severe allergic rhinitis or rhinoconjunctivitis caused by house dust mite allergies. The research aims to provide valuable insights into new treatment options for allergy sufferers.

Table of Contents

What is Anthoxanthum Odoratum?

Anthoxanthum odoratum, also known as sweet vernal grass, is a type of grass pollen extract used in allergy testing and treatment[1]. It is one of several grass pollens included in a mixture used for diagnosing and treating grass pollen allergies.

Medical Use

Anthoxanthum odoratum is primarily used in the diagnosis and treatment of grass pollen allergies. It is part of a mixture of grass pollens used in skin prick tests and immunotherapy treatments for patients with allergic rhinitis (hay fever) or allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (affecting both nose and eyes) caused by grass pollen allergies[1].

Clinical Study

A clinical trial is being conducted to assess the effectiveness of a treatment containing Anthoxanthum odoratum and other grass pollens for adults with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis or rhinoconjunctivitis due to house dust mite allergy[1]. This study aims to evaluate:

  • The reduction in allergy symptoms and medication use
  • Changes in quality of life for patients
  • Safety and tolerability of the treatment
  • Effects on asthma in patients who also have this condition

Administration

In the context of allergy testing, Anthoxanthum odoratum is typically administered as part of a skin prick test. This involves placing a drop of the allergen solution on the skin and then lightly pricking the skin to allow the solution to enter[1]. For treatment, it may be given as part of subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), which involves injections under the skin[1].

Potential Benefits

The potential benefits of treatments including Anthoxanthum odoratum for grass pollen allergies may include:

  • Reduced allergy symptoms (such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes)
  • Decreased need for allergy medications
  • Improved quality of life
  • Potential long-term reduction in allergy severity
However, these benefits are still being studied in clinical trials[1].

Safety and Side Effects

As with any medical treatment, there may be potential side effects or risks associated with using Anthoxanthum odoratum in allergy testing or treatment. These could include:

  • Local reactions at the site of skin prick tests or injections
  • Allergic reactions, which in rare cases could be severe
  • Potential effects on asthma symptoms in people who have both allergies and asthma
The ongoing clinical trial is specifically evaluating the safety and tolerability of the treatment[1].

Who Can Use This Treatment?

Based on the clinical trial criteria, this type of treatment may be suitable for:

  • Adults aged 18-65 with moderate to severe allergic rhinitis or rhinoconjunctivitis caused by grass pollen allergies
  • Individuals with a confirmed grass pollen allergy through skin prick tests and blood tests
  • People with or without mild asthma (as long as it’s well-controlled)
However, there are many factors that determine eligibility for this type of treatment, and it should only be used under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional[1].

Aspect Details
Study Type Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multi-Centre Study
Main Objective Assess efficacy of PURETHAL Mites Mixture in treating moderate to severe house dust mite-induced allergic rhinitis/rhinoconjunctivitis
Treatment Subcutaneous immunotherapy with grass pollen mixture including Anthoxanthum Odoratum
Duration Approximately 52 weeks
Primary Endpoint Average daily Total Combined Rhinitis Score (TCRS) during last 8 weeks of treatment
Key Inclusion Criteria Adults 18-65, moderate-severe HDM allergic rhinitis for 1+ year, positive skin prick test, minimum nasal symptom score
Key Exclusion Criteria Severe immune disorders, active malignancies, moderate-severe asthma, history of anaphylaxis, recent/planned allergen immunotherapy

FAQ

  • What is Anthoxanthum Odoratum and how is it being used in this clinical trial? Anthoxanthum Odoratum, also known as sweet vernal grass, is one of the grass pollens included in the mixture being tested. It's part of a skin prick test solution used to diagnose allergies and potentially treat moderate to severe allergic rhinitis or rhinoconjunctivitis caused by house dust mite allergies.
  • Who can participate in this clinical trial? The trial is open to adults aged 18-65 with a history of moderate to severe house dust mite allergic rhinitis for at least one year. Participants must meet specific criteria, including a positive skin prick test to house dust mites and a minimum nasal symptom score.
  • What is the main goal of this clinical trial? The main objective is to assess the clinical efficacy of the allergen mixture in treating moderate to severe house dust mite-induced allergic rhinitis or rhinoconjunctivitis. This is measured by comparing symptom scores between the treatment group and a placebo group.
  • How long does the clinical trial last? The total treatment period should be within 52 weeks (about one year). This includes an initial screening period, followed by a series of up-dosing injections and maintenance injections over the course of the year.
  • What are some of the exclusion criteria for this trial? Exclusion criteria include having severe immune disorders, active malignancies, moderate to severe asthma, history of anaphylaxis, and recent or planned allergen immunotherapy treatments. Pregnant or lactating women are also excluded from the trial.

Ongoing Clinical Trials on Anthoxanthum Odoratum

  • Study on the Effectiveness of PURETHAL Mites for Adults with Moderate to Severe Allergic Rhinitis or Rhinoconjunctivitis Due to House Dust Mite Allergy

    Not recruiting

    3 1 1
    Investigated drugs:
    Austria Bulgaria Germany Latvia Lithuania Poland

Glossary

  • Allergic Rhinitis: An allergic reaction that causes inflammation in the nose, resulting in symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and nasal congestion.
  • Rhinoconjunctivitis: A condition where both the nose and eyes are affected by an allergic reaction, causing symptoms in both areas.
  • House Dust Mite (HDM): Tiny insects that live in household dust and are a common cause of allergies and asthma.
  • Skin Prick Test (SPT): A method used to diagnose allergies by placing a small amount of an allergen on the skin and then pricking the skin to see if a reaction occurs.
  • Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT): A treatment for allergies where small amounts of an allergen are injected under the skin to help the body build tolerance over time.
  • Total Combined Rhinitis Score (TCRS): A measure used to assess the severity of allergy symptoms, combining scores for nasal symptoms and medication use.
  • Forced Expiratory Volume 1 (FEV1): A lung function test that measures how much air a person can exhale in one second.
  • Immunoglobulin E (IgE): An antibody produced by the immune system in response to allergens, often elevated in people with allergies.
  • Nasal Provocation Test (NPT): A test where an allergen is applied directly to the nasal lining to diagnose or assess the severity of nasal allergies.
  • Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ): A survey used to measure how allergies affect a person's daily life and overall well-being.

References

  1. http://clinicaltrials.eu/trial/study-on-the-effectiveness-of-purethal-mites-for-adults-with-moderate-to-severe-allergic-rhinitis-or-rhinoconjunctivitis-due-to-house-dust-mite-allergy/