GENERIC NAME: OMALIZUMAB - INJECTION (oh-mal-IZ-oo-mab)
BRAND NAME(S): Xolair
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert
USES: This medication is used to treat moderate to severe asthma in adults and children over 12 years of age. It works by blocking your immune system's natural response to allergic triggers that can lead to an acute asthma attack. This action on your immune system (specifically immunoglobulin E-IgE), helps keep your air passages open and, over time, it keeps your asthma in better control. This medication does not work immediately and should not be used for the quick relief of an acute asthma attack.
HOW TO USE: Inject this medication under the skin (subcutaneously-SC), usually every 2 or 4 weeks as directed by your doctor. Learn how to prepare and inject the drug. Review all the product package instructions and consult your doctor or pharmacist if any of the information is unclear. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it on the same day of the week according to your schedule. It may take up to several months of continued use to see improvement in your condition. The dosage is based on your body weight and blood level of IgE antibody, as well as your medical condition and response to therapy. Contact your doctor if you have a significant change in body weight during treatment. Your dose may need to be adjusted. Do not stop any of your asthma medications without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse if your asthma drugs are abruptly stopped. Any decrease of your medications (e.g., corticosteroids) should be done gradually, under the supervision of your doctor.
SIDE EFFECTS: Injection site itching, redness, stinging, or pain may occur. Leg, arm or ear pain may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: unusual lumps/growths/moles. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling (especially of the tongue or throat), dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Asthma - Read about asthma signs and symptoms, statistics, medication, inhalers, and management, and triggers (or what causes an attack). Get the facts about asthma in children and exercise-induced asthma.
- Asthma Complexities - Asthma can often have unusual symptoms. Symptoms of asthma may also vary from indivudual to individual in type and duration.
- Asthma Medications - Learn about various asthma medications, from inhalers and nebulizers to over the counter drugs and long-acting medicines like bronchodilators and corticosteroids.
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