Omalizumab - Medication Detail
Medication Type
Long Term Control
Generic Names
Omalizumab
Brand Names
Xolair®
Description
An injection to treat moderate to severe, allergic asthma that is not well controlled with other initial standard therapies such as inhaled glucocorticoid with a long-acting beta agonist.
It works over a few months to prevent the body's reaction to allergens.
Delivery
Injection under the skin (subcutaneous).
Dosage
- Any dose > 150 mg will be divided into more than 1 injection site and separated by at least 1 inch.
- Dose and frequency will be determined by your doctor based on body weight and the number of antibodies in your blood before treatment. Doses will be adjusted during treatment for significant weight changes.
- A minimum of 3 to 6 months of treatment is recommended to determine if the medication is working.
Adults
- The usual dose is between 150 mg and 375 mg given as 1 to 3 injections under the skin every 2 to 4 weeks
Children ≥ 12 to 18 years
- Same as adults for pretreatment serum IgE levels ≥30 to 600.
Children ≥ 6 to <12 years
- The usual dose is between 75 mg and 375 mg given as 1 to 3 injections under the skin every 2 to 4 weeks
Proper Use
Given as a shot into the fatty part of the skin on the stomach, front or middle of thighs, or the upper arm 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 the doctor’s office for up to 2 hours after the first 3 injections are given to ensure there is no serious allergic reaction
- Your doctor will tell you how long you need to stay after each subsequent 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 drug 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
- Bruising, redness, pain, 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, itching, 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.