Xolair

Xolair® is a prescription biologic medication used as an add-on treatment for moderate-to-severe allergic asthma that is not well controlled with inhaled medications. It contains omalizumab, which targets a key part of the body’s allergic response. It’s designed for ongoing asthma management, not for sudden breathing problems.

• Used in adults and children 6 years and older
• Prescribed for allergic asthma linked to specific triggers
• Belongs to a class called anti-IgE biologics
• Helps reduce allergic inflammation involved in asthma
• Given as an injection under the skin

Xolair® is given as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin), usually every 2 or 4 weeks. The exact dose and schedule are based on your body weight and certain lab values. Treatment is typically started in a healthcare setting due to safety monitoring.

• Injected under the skin at regular intervals
• Dose is individualized based on medical factors
• May be given in a clinic, especially at the beginning
• Some patients may transition to home use after evaluation
• Not used for sudden asthma symptoms

Always follow your provider’s instructions and continue your other asthma medications unless told otherwise.

Xolair® can cause side effects, ranging from general discomfort to more serious reactions. While many people tolerate treatment, it’s important to know what to watch for.

• Joint pain, fatigue, or dizziness
• Skin reactions such as itching or rash
• Ear pain or upper respiratory symptoms
• Headache or mild illness-like symptoms
• Injection-related discomfort

Seek urgent medical help if you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or severe rash. Contact your provider if you notice unusual or persistent symptoms after treatment.

For more detail refer to the Important Safety / Prescribing Information.

Xolair® should be stored and handled according to the instructions provided with your medication. Proper storage helps maintain its effectiveness.

• Follow storage instructions on the package
• Keep medication in a safe place
• Avoid using damaged or expired product
• Ask your pharmacist if unsure
• Keep out of reach of children

If you have questions about storage, your provider or pharmacist can help.

Xolair® is usually added to your existing asthma treatment rather than replacing it. It’s prescribed when inhalers alone are not enough to control symptoms.

• Typically combined with inhaled corticosteroids
• May be used alongside other asthma medications
• Part of a long-term management plan
• Your provider will tailor your treatment

No, Xolair® is not used to treat asthma attacks. It does not act quickly enough to relieve sudden breathing symptoms.

• Not a rescue medication
• Does not provide immediate relief
• Keep your rescue inhaler available
• Follow your asthma action plan

If you have severe or worsening symptoms, seek medical care right away.

Before starting Xolair®, your provider may perform tests to confirm that it’s appropriate for your type of asthma.

• Blood test to measure IgE levels
• Assessment of body weight for dosing
• Allergy testing for triggers
• Review of symptom history

These steps help ensure the treatment is matched to your condition.

If you miss a scheduled injection, contact your provider or clinic to reschedule as soon as possible.

• Do not try to double up doses
• Stay consistent with appointments
• Follow provider guidance for timing
• Keep track of your schedule

Your provider will advise you on how to safely continue treatment.

No, you should not change your injection schedule without medical advice. The timing is based on specific factors like your weight and lab results.

• Dosing schedule is individualized
• Changes may affect treatment effectiveness
• Your provider will adjust if needed
• Stick to your prescribed plan

You should not stop steroid medications on your own. Any changes need to be carefully managed by your provider.

• Steroids may need gradual reduction
• Sudden stopping can worsen symptoms
• Xolair® does not replace them immediately
• Follow provider guidance

Always consult your provider before making changes to your treatment.

Xolair® is approved for several allergic and inflammatory conditions, but your treatment plan depends on your specific diagnosis.

• May be used in multiple conditions
• Your provider will assess your full health picture
• Treatment may vary based on symptoms
• Focus remains on asthma management

Discuss your full medical history with your provider for the best approach.

There are no specific restrictions listed for alcohol use with Xolair®. However, it’s important to monitor how you feel.

• No direct interaction noted
• Alcohol may affect overall well-being
• Be aware of any unusual symptoms
• Ask your provider if unsure

Most people can continue normal activities, including driving, after an injection. However, individual reactions can vary.

• Monitor how you feel after treatment
• Avoid driving if you feel unwell
• Watch for dizziness or fatigue
• Safety should come first

If you’re unsure, wait until you feel stable before driving.

Xolair® is injected under the skin in specific areas of the body. A healthcare provider will guide you on proper administration.

• Common areas include the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen
• Injection sites may be rotated
• Given under the skin (subcutaneous)
• Follow provider instructions carefully

If you’re unsure about injection sites, ask your provider for guidance.

Some patients may be able to administer Xolair® at home after proper evaluation and training, but this is not suitable for everyone.

• Initial doses often given in a clinic
• Provider will assess if home use is appropriate
• Training is required before self-injection
• Monitoring may still be needed

Always follow your provider’s guidance for administration.

“1 vial” refers to a single container of medication that may need to be prepared before use. It does not necessarily equal one full treatment dose.

• Dose depends on your prescription
• May require preparation before injection
• Treatment schedule varies by patient
• Follow provider instructions

Your provider will determine how much medication you need per dose.

Storage instructions can vary depending on the specific form of Xolair® you receive, so always follow the packaging instructions.

• Store according to label directions
• Keep medication in a safe place
• Do not use expired or damaged product
• Ask your pharmacist if unsure

Proper storage helps maintain the medication’s effectiveness.

Before starting Xolair®, share important health information to help ensure safe treatment.

• History of allergic reactions
• Previous severe reactions (like anaphylaxis)
• Current medications or supplements
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Any ongoing health conditions

Providing complete information helps your provider make the safest decision.

Xolair® (Omalizumab) - Prescribing information for an anti-IgE antibody used to treat certain forms of asthma, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, food allergy, and chronic spontaneous urticaria. / Source: DailyMed, U.S. National Library of Medicine Link: DailyMed / Published: December 2, 2025