Medicines and Drugs
Find information on thousands of medicines and drugs on common names, uses, how to use, side effects, precautions, storage, drug interactions, overdose symptoms, what to do if you miss a dose and more.
Omalizumab subcutane.
Drug Name Omalizumab subcutane.
Omalizumab subcutane. Drug Category OMALIZUMAB - INJECTION
Omalizumab subcutane. Drug Information
IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.
OMALIZUMAB - INJECTION
(oh-mal-IZ-oo-mab)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Xolair
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.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: any allergies. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: other medications for asthma. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store unopened vials in the refrigerator between 36 and 46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C). Once a vial is mixed, use the solution within 8 hours when stored in the refrigerator, or within 4 hours when stored at room temperature. Keep vials away from direct sunlight. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.
MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854- 1166 (USA) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).