Omalizumab is used during the treatment of persistent asthma moderate-severe in patients with positive skin tests for allergies that can not keep symptoms under control with corticosteroids .
In addition, it is used during the treatment of chronic idiopathic urticaria .
What is Omalizumab?
Omalizumab is a monoclonal antibody . This drug keeps the airways more open, since it acts by inhibiting the immune reaction to all those allergens that could induce an acute asthma attack. The mechanisms that could bring about a positive effect on chronic urticaria symptoms, however, are not known.
How is Omalizumab taken?
Omalizumab is taken via injections .
Side effects of Omalizumab
Omalizumab may increase the risk of developing some cancers.
Potential side effects of omalizubam include:
- bruising, itching , pain, redness, tingling, swelling or overheating at the injection site
- nose or throat irritation
- nausea
- fatigue
A doctor should be contacted immediately if any of the following symptoms occur:
- rash
- urticaria
- itch
- breathing difficulties
- feeling of tightness or chest pain
- swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue
- anxiety
- pain in an arm or leg
- bone pain
- burning, numbness or tingling
- dizziness
- fainting
- fast, weak or irregular heartbeat
- unusual warm feeling
- flushes
- hoarseness
- symptoms of an infection
- swelling of the hands or feet
- wheezing
Contraindications and warnings on the use of Omalizumab
A doctor should always be informed before starting Omalizubam treatment in any of the following cases:
- of any allergies to the active substance, to its excipients, to any other drug, to foods or other substances;
- of medicinal products, herbal remedies and supplements taken, in particular medications for asthma or hives;
- if you have suffered or still suffer from bronchospasm, cancer, low white blood cells or parasitosis;
- if you plan to travel to countries where parasitosis is possible ;
- if you are a smoker ;
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding .
It may take several months before treatment with Omalizubam is effective
