Medication Type
Long Term Control
Generic Names
Omalizumab
Brand Names
Xolair®
Description
This medication is an injection to treat severe persistent asthma in adults and children 6 years of age and older who are not controlled by other long acting medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids. It works over time to prevent the body’s reaction to the allergens.
Delivery
Injection under the skin
Dosage
The usual dose is between 75 and 375 mg given as 1 to 3 injections under the skin every 2 to 4 weeks. The exact dose will be determined by your doctor based on body weight and the amount of antibodies in your blood before treatment.
Proper Use
Given as a shot into the fatty part of the skin every 2 to 4 weeks.
Precautions
- Do NOT use this medication to treat an asthma attack.
- Allergic reactions to this medication have been reported. You must stay in your doctor's office for up to 2 hours after each injection is given to make sure you do not have a serious allergic reaction. Your doctor's office will tell you how long you need to stay after each injection.
- Do not stop taking your other asthma medications or reduce their doses without your doctor’s approval.
- Long-term use may raise your chance of developing cancer.
- Pregnant women should talk with their doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication.
Common Interactions
This medication has no common interactions, but less common interactions exist.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your medications and health problems so they can look for any interactions.
Possible Side Effects
Possible side effects include: bruising, redness or irritation where the shot is given, dizziness, headache, runny nose, and fever. Severe allergic reactions have been seen with this medication.
Tell your doctor or get medical help if you notice any sign of an allergic reaction (rash, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swelling of the mouth, face, lips tongue, or throat, feeling faint) or if you have a fever or joint pain.
Proper Storage
This drug will be given to you in a hospital or doctor’s office. You will not store it at home.