Omalizumab injection

What is this medicine?

OMALIZUMAB (oh mah lye ZOO mab) is used to help treat allergic asthma and chronic hives. It may be given with other treatments for these conditions.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for injection under the skin. It is usually given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting. In rare cases, you might get this medicine at home. You will be taught how to prepare and give this medicine. Use exactly as directed. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

A special MedGuide will be given to you with each injection. Be sure to read this information carefully each time.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• breathing problems

• changes in vision

• chest pain

• pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet

• sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg

• symptoms of joint pain or swelling, fever, and rash

• unusual bleeding or bruising

• unusually weak or tired

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• headache

• pain, redness or irritation at site where injected

• nausea

• runny nose

• sore throat

What may interact with this medicine?

Interactions are not expected.

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. This medicine is usually given every 2 to 4 weeks. Call your doctor or health care professional if you are unable to keep an appointment.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children. This drug is usually given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home. In rare cases, this medicine may be given at home. If you are using this medicine at home, you will be instructed on how to store it. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date on the label.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• cancer

• have or have had a parasite infection

• an unusual or allergic reaction to omalizumab, hamster proteins, latex, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

After receiving each injection, you will be monitored in your doctor's office or clinic. Your doctor will determine how long you will be observed after each injection. You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.

Improvement of your asthma or allergies will not be immediate. Improvements will occur gradually. Do not stop taking any of your other asthma or allergy treatments unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

Some people who are at a high risk for parasite (worm) infections, get a parasite infection after receiving this drug. Your healthcare provider can test your stool to check for this type of infection if you are at risk.