OMalizumab

Question 1

What class of drug is omalizumab

Answer 1

monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to free human immunoglobulin E (IgE).

Question 2

How is omalizumab delivered?

Answer 2

given as a subcutaneous injection every 2 to 4 weeks.

Question 3

For whom is omalizumab recommended?

Answer 3

• severe persistent confirmed allergic IgE-mediated asthma
• add on to optimised standard therapy in people >6 years
  who need frequent treatment with oral corticosteroids (>4 courses in the past year)

Question 4

Adverse effects of omalizumab

Answer 4

abdominal pain
headache
fever
Churg-Strauss syndrome (eosinophilia, vasculitic rash, worsening respiratory symptoms)