Omalizumab

Patients who suffer from severe asthma may be given omalizumab injections. This medication is usually prescribed for patients who have an allergic reaction to pollen or dust mites that includes wheezing and shortness of breath and who continue to have this reaction despite taking inhaled steroids.

Side Effects/Warnings

Some patients are highly allergic to this medication. Allergic reactions can occur suddenly and at any time during treatment; they usually occur within 24 hours of being given a shot. If you have any of the following symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, call 911:

• Wheezing, shortness of breath, or other difficulty breathing
• Changes in heart rate
• Sudden anxiety, dread, or feeling like something bad is going to happen for no reason
• Swelling of the face or tongue
• Hives, itching or rash