HOME
A-Z

Omalizumab

Medication Information Leaflet

What is this medication for?

This medication is used to treat hives (an itchy skin reaction), asthma and/or nasal polyps (growths in the nose).
It may take a few months to see the full effect.
This medication does not treat acute symptoms such as acute asthma attack. You should follow the management plans by your physician for acute symptoms.

How should I take or use this medication?

Your doctor will decide the right dose of the medication for you and how often you should receive it.
The medication is given as a subcutaneous injection (injection under the skin) by the nurse.

What should I do if I forget to take or use this medication?

Inform your doctor if you miss a dose or an appointment for a dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using this medication?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

You have any allergies, including latex allergy.
You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
You are taking other medications, including supplements, traditional medications and herbal remedies.
You are being treated for parasite (worm) infection or travelling to an area where parasitic infections are common. This medication may reduce your ability to fight against parasite infections.
You have kidney or liver problems.
You have a disorder where your immune system attacks part of your own body (autoimmune disease).

Do not stop your steroid tablets or inhaler all of a sudden after starting omalizumab, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.

What are some common side effects of this medication?

Injection site reactions such as redness, swelling, itching, or pain. These symptoms usually go away within 3 to 5 days.
Symptoms of a common cold such as blocked nose, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, coughing, mild fever (below 38°C)
Headache
Feeling tired or weak
Stomach pain
Pain in arms or legs
Ear pain

If any of the following effects persist or are severe, consult your doctor.

What are some rare but serious side-effects that I need to seek medical advice immediately?

Inform your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following:

Allergic reactions: itchy skin rash over your whole body, swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue, difficulty in breathing
Fever, joint/muscle pain, rash within 1 to 5 days after receiving this medication
Numbness or tingling feeling
Bone pain
Chest pain; passing out; shortness of breath; numbness, change in color, pain in a leg or arm
Trouble in breathing that is new or worse
Bleeding or bruising more easily than normal

How should I store this medication?

Store in a refrigerator (2°C – 8°C). Do not freeze.

Disclaimer

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately. The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on Sept 2022

This article was last reviewed on Tuesday, October 18, 2022