A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Xolair (Omalizumab) is a prescription medication used primarily for managing and treating moderate to severe persistent asthma in individuals whose symptoms are not adequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids. This innovative biologic therapy is particularly effective for patients with an allergic background and is designed to block immunoglobulin E (IgE), a key element in the allergy and asthma inflammatory pathway. Xolair is also approved for use in treating chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU), commonly known as chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), in patients who continue to experience hives despite treatment with antihistamines.
Before you buy Xolair injection, it is crucial that you talk to your healthcare provider about potential side effects and Xolair injection price.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | Not applicable (biologic) |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Not applicable (biologic) |
Legal status | Prescription Drugs |
Chemical Name | Omalizumab |
Elimination half-life | 26–28 days |
Dosage (Strength) | Varies depending on indication and patient weight |
Pregnancy | Category B - No evidence of risk in humans; however, no adequate studies have been conducted in pregnant women |
Brands | Xolair |
Protein binding | Approx. 99% |
PubChem CID | 6918173 (for omalizumab) |
MedlinePlus | a610020 (for omalizumab) |
ChEBI | 518341 (Omalizumab) |
ATC code | R03DX05 |
DrugBank | DB00082 (Omalizumab) |
KEGG | D02954 (Omalizumab) |
Routes of administration | Subcutaneous injection |
For Asthma:
Xolair is administered by subcutaneous injection. The dosage depends on the patient's body weight and baseline serum total IgE level, which must be measured before the start of the treatment. It is typically given once every two or four weeks. Treatment with Xolair should be initiated and supervised by healthcare professionals experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of asthma.
For Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria:
Patients are usually given a fixed dose of Xolair, regardless of their IgE levels or body weight. The injections are administered every four weeks.
Patients should be monitored for an appropriate period after administration for the possibility of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to adjust dosing and assess effectiveness and safety.
The active ingredient in Xolair is omalizumab.
Patients considering Xolair medication should discuss their full medical history with their healthcare provider, particularly if they have a history of severe allergic reactions that require the use of an epinephrine pen. Xolair should not be used by patients who have a known allergy to omalizumab or any of its components.
Patients must be monitored for anaphylaxis following each injection. If anaphylaxis occurs, Xolair injection should be discontinued immediately, and appropriate medical treatment should be initiated.
Before starting Xolair, patients should inform their healthcare provider about all the medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Although there are no specific drug interaction studies with Xolair, it is always crucial to avoid potential interactions that could alter the effectiveness of the medications or increase side effects.
Common side effects of Xolair include:
How effective is Xolair in treating asthma?
Xolair has been proven to significantly reduce the frequency of asthma attacks in clinical trials, especially in patients with severe persistent asthma linked to allergies.
Can Xolair cure my asthma?
No, Xolair is not a cure for asthma; it is a treatment aimed at managing symptoms and reducing flare-ups.
How long does it take for Xolair to work?
Some patients may notice an improvement in asthma symptoms within 12 weeks of starting treatment, but it can vary.
Is Xolair safe for children?
Xolair is approved for treating asthma in children ages six years and older. The safety and effectiveness in children with chronic idiopathic urticaria under the age of 12 have not been established.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Xolair?
If a dose is missed, reschedule the injection as soon as possible, and then continue with the regular injection schedule. However, double doses should be avoided.
Can I receive Xolair injections at home?
Xolair injections must be administered in a healthcare setting due to the risk of anaphylaxis.
Will I need to use other asthma medications while taking Xolair?
Typically, Xolair is used in conjunction with other asthma medications. Discuss any changes to your medication regimen with your healthcare provider.
Are there any lifestyle changes I should make while using Xolair?
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding known allergens, and not smoking can help improve your response to any asthma treatment, including Xolair.
Can Xolair be used during pregnancy?
The effects of Xolair on pregnancy are not well understood. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
How long do I need to stay on Xolair?
The duration of Xolair treatment varies by individual. Some patients may require long-term treatment to manage their condition effectively. Regular assessments by your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate length of treatment.