[New drugs; omalizumab].
Omalizumab is a humanised monoclonal antibody that binds to circulating IgE, inhibiting its binding to the surface of mast cells and basophilic granulocytes. This prevents the release of pro-inflammatory mediators that produce an allergic response. This targeted mechanism of action provides a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of patients with severe persistent, therapy-resistant allergic asthma. Omalizumab is administered subcutaneously in addition to other anti-asthma therapy. Until recently, the most important side effects are skin reactions at the site of administration and headache. Prospective data on additional long-term side effects are still being collected.
Cohen
A F
AF
Centre for Human Drug Research, Leiden. ac@chdr.nl
Dubois
E A
EA
van Bronswijk
H
H
D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000888:Antibodies, Anti-Idiotypic; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D000069444:Omalizumab; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D018927:Anti-Asthmatic Agents; D000888:Antibodies, Anti-Idiotypic; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D061067:Antibodies, Monoclonal, Humanized; D000069444:Omalizumab