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Omalizumab

Drug Class: Commonly Known As: Category:
Hives, urticaria, asthma, omalizumab, xolair, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, nasal polyps

Omalizumab - What is it for

This medication is used to treat hives (an itchy skin reaction), asthma and/or nasal polyps (growths in the nose). It may take a few months to see the full effect. This medication does not treat acute symptoms such as acute asthma attack. You should follow the management plans by your physician for acute symptoms.

Omalizumab - Side Effects, Precautions, and Contraindications

What side effects can Omalizumab cause?

Common side effects include:

  • Injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, itching, or pain. These symptoms usually go away within 3 to 5 days.
  • Symptoms of a common cold such as blocked nose, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, coughing, mild fever (below 38°C)
  • Headache
  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Stomach pain
  • Pain in arms or legs
  • Ear pain

If any of the following effects persist or are severe, consult your doctor.

Rare but serious side effects include:

  • Allergic reactions: itchy skin rash over your whole body, swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue, difficulty in breathing
  • Fever, joint/muscle pain, rash within 1 to 5 days after receiving this medication
  • Numbness or tingling feeling
  • Bone pain
  • Chest pain; passing out; shortness of breath; numbness, change in color, pain in a leg or arm
  • Trouble in breathing that is new or worse
  • Bleeding or bruising more easily than normal

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medication and see your healthcare professional immediately.

Before taking Omalizumab , what precautions must I follow?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

  • You have any allergies, including latex allergy.
  • You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
  • You are taking other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
  • You are being treated for parasite (worm) infection or travelling to an area where parasitic infections are common. This medication may reduce your ability to fight against parasite infections.
  • You have kidney or liver problems.
  • You have a disorder where your immune system attacks part of your own body (autoimmune disease).

Do not stop your steroid tablets or inhaler all of a sudden after starting omalizumab, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

What food or medicine must I avoid when I take Omalizumab ?

Omalizumab - Dosage and How to Use

How should Omalizumab be used?

  • Your doctor will decide the right dose of the medication for you and how often you should receive it.
  • The medication is given as a subcutaneous injection (injection under the skin) by the nurse.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Inform your doctor if you miss a dose or an appointment for a dose.

What should I do if I overdose?

Omalizumab - Handling

How should I handle Omalizumab safely?

Omalizumab - Storage

How should I store Omalizumab ?

;#Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.;#

How should I dispose of Omalizumab safely?

For general waste: Pack this medication into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin

Omalizumab - Additional Information

  • Updated on 9/30/2022 12:00:00 AM
  • Article contributed by PSS National Medication Information Workgroup PSS National Medication Information Workgroup
The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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