Omalizumab
About Omalizumab
Omalizumab belongs to the class of monoclonal antibodies used to treat various conditions, including allergic asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nose and sinuses) with nasal polyps and chronic spontaneous urticaria. Allergic asthma is a type of asthma triggered by allergens, leading to respiratory issues. Chronic rhinosinusitis is a prolonged inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses, persisting for at least 12 weeks despite treatment. Chronic spontaneous urticaria is defined by recurring episodes of hives and/or angioedema, resulting in itchy, bumpy skin rash and swelling beneath the skin.
Omalizumab contains Omalizumab, which binds to Immunoglobulin E (IgE), a protein that triggers allergic responses. Omalizumab blocks IgE from binding to allergens, thereby reducing the severity of allergic reactions and providing relief from symptoms associated with conditions like allergic asthma and chronic spontaneous urticaria.
A healthcare professional will administer Omalizumab. The common side effects of Omalizumab include joint pain, dizziness, stomach pain, common cold, headache, ear pain, and injection site reactions, which include pain, swelling, itching, and redness. Most of these adverse effects go away gradually over time on their own. If any of these symptoms worsen or continue, consult a doctor.
Omalizumab should be avoided if allergic to it or any other components present in it. Before starting Omalizumab, inform your doctor if you have any liver or kidney disease, autoimmune disease or active parasitic infections. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should inform the physician before starting treatment with Omalizumab. Omalizumab is not recommended for children under 6 years of age.
Uses of Omalizumab
• Moderate to severe allergic asthma: Omalizumab helps control asthma symptoms when inhaled steroids are insufficient.
• Chronic spontaneous urticaria (hives): Omalizumab is used to treat chronic spontaneous urticaria when antihistamines fail.
• Nasal polyps: Omalizumab reduces inflammation and improves breathing.
• Food allergy prevention: Omalizumab lowers the risk of severe allergic reactions.
Medicinal Benefits
Omalizumab provides significant relief for people with complex allergies. By targeting and neutralizing IgE, Omalizumab controls inflammation and allergic reactions, improving the quality of life for those with these conditions. It reduces asthma attacks in adults and children above 6 years with moderate to severe allergic asthma. It also effectively manages chronic hives in patients aged 12 years and older by decreasing symptoms. Additionally, Omalizumab helps adults with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps who don't respond to nasal steroids.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Omalizumab
- Joint pain
- Dizziness
- Stomach pain
- Common cold
- Headache
- Ear pain
- Injection site reactions
Drug Warnings
Omalizumab should be avoided if allergic to it or any other components present in it. Before starting Omalizumab, inform your doctor if you have any liver or kidney disease, autoimmune disease or active parasitic infections. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers should inform the physician before starting treatment with Omalizumab. Omalizumab may cause dizziness, so drive only if you are alert and focused. Avoid consuming alcohol along with Omalizumab as it could lead to increased dizziness. Omalizumab is not recommended for children under 6 years of age. Omalizumab is not used to treat acute asthma attacks, hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome, sudden allergic reactions, food allergies, eczema, and hay fever.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interaction: Omalizumab may interacts with Atezolizumab, Avelumab and Ipilimumab.
Drug-Food Interaction: Avoid alcohol consumption while being treated with Omalizumab.
Drug-Disease Interaction: Omalizumab should be used with caution in cases of liver or kidney diseases, autoimmune disease, weak immune systems, and active parasitic infections.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeYou are recommended to avoid alcohol consumption while taking Omalizumab. Alcohol intake, along with Omalizumab, may cause increased dizziness.
Pregnancy
cautionIf you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, inform your doctor before receiving Omalizumab. Your doctor may recommend this medication if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.
Breast Feeding
consult your doctorOmalizumab may pass into breast milk. If you are breast-feeding or plan to breast-feed, please consult your doctor before using it.
Driving
cautionOmalizumab may make you feel dizzy. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you are fully alert and aware.
Liver
consult your doctorPlease inform your doctor if you have liver impairment/liver disease before receiving Omalizumab.
Kidney
consult your doctorPlease inform your doctor if you have kidney impairment/kidney disease before receiving Omalizumab.
Children
cautionOmalizumab is not recommended in children below 6 years of age as the safety and efficacy are not established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support your overall well-being.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption to reduce health risks.
- Reduce your intake of sugary, salty, and processed foods.
- Create a healthier home environment by minimizing exposure to allergens like pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. Regular cleaning and using air purifiers can help.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Allergic Asthma: Allergic asthma occurs when inhaling allergens like pollen, dust mites, mold, or pet dander triggers an asthma attack. This causes airway inflammation, constriction, and symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Additionally, people with allergic asthma may experience itchy eyes and a runny nose due to related allergies.
Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Chronic rhinosinusitis is a persistent inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses lasting 12 weeks or more, despite treatment. Symptoms include nasal congestion, thick discharge, facial pain, loss of smell, and coughing. This condition can be triggered by infections, nasal polyps, a deviated septum, and underlying health issues like asthma and allergies.
Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU): Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is characterized by recurring episodes of hives and/or angioedema, marked by itchy, raised, red welts and swelling under the skin. These symptoms occur frequently, often without a clear cause, and can significantly impact daily life. While the exact cause is unknown, CSU is often linked to autoimmune responses, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.
FAQs
Omalizumab is a monoclonal antibody used to treat allergic asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis (inflammation of the nose and sinuses) with nasal polyps and chronic spontaneous urticaria.
Omalizumab contains Omalizumab, as an active ingredient which belongs to the class of monoclonal antibodies. It works by targeting and neutralizing immunoglobulin E (IgE), a key antibody responsible for triggering allergic reactions.
Do not discontinue treatment with Omalizumab without consulting your doctor. To treat your medical condition effectively, continue using Omalizumab or visit your doctor for administration as long as it has been prescribed for you.
Please inform your doctor before taking other medicines while being treated with Omalizumab. Your doctor will determine which medicines should not be taken along with Omalizumab.
Omalizumab may cause common side effects, such as joint pain, dizziness, upper abdominal pain, common cold, headache, ear pain and injection site reactions including pain, swelling, itching and redness. Please consult your doctor if any of these side effects persist or worsen.
