omalizumab

Omalizumab is a recombinant DNA-derived humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody that targets immunoglobulin E (IgE). It works by binding to free IgE in the blood and interstitial fluid, as well as membrane-bound IgE on B lymphocytes, thereby preventing IgE from attaching to its receptors on mast cells and basophils. This action reduces the release of inflammatory mediators responsible for allergic reactions. Omalizumab is primarily used for the treatment of moderate to severe persistent allergic asthma (in patients aged 6 years and older), chronic spontaneous urticaria (chronic hives without known cause) in patients 12 years and older who do not respond to antihistamines, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps in adults with inadequate response to corticosteroids, and reduction of allergic reactions including anaphylaxis due to accidental exposure in patients with IgE-mediated food allergy aged 1 year or older. The drug was first approved in the US in 2003[2][7][1].

Brand names

XolairOmlyclo

Other names

omalizumab-igec