Mistletoe extracts are usually given by
subcutaneous injection, although administration by other routes (i.e.,
oral,
intrapleural, intratumoral, and intravenous) has been described.[
19,
22-
26,
39,
43,
55,
57,
60,
64-
70] In most reported studies, subcutaneous injections were given 2 to 3 times a week, but the overall duration of treatment varied considerably.
Viscum album is listed in the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States, which is the officially recognized compendium for homeopathic drugs in this country.[
71] Although the
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has regulatory authority over homeopathic drugs, this authority is usually not exercised unless the drugs are formulated for injection or there is evidence of severe
toxicity.
Before researchers can conduct clinical drug research in the United States, they must file an
Investigational New Drug (IND) application with the FDA. IND approval is also required for clinical investigation of homeopathic drugs. The FDA does not disclose information about IND applications or approvals; this information can be released only by the applicants. At least two U.S.
investigators were given IND approval to study mistletoe as a treatment for people with cancer (NCCAM-02-AT-260 and
TJUH-01F.45).
In this summary, the mistletoe extract or product used in each study will be specified wherever possible.