Type 2 Inflammation Biologic (Anti-IgE) from Genentech / Novartis.
Xolair was the first targeted biologic approved in immunology. It is an anti-IgE monoclonal antibody that binds free IgE and prevents IgE from triggering mast cells and basophils. It is now FDA-approved for allergic asthma, chronic spontaneous urticaria, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, and reducing the risk of severe allergic reactions to one or more foods after accidental exposure in patients with IgE-mediated food allergy. The breadth of indications makes it one of the most versatile medications in the immunology toolkit.
Xolair is FDA-approved for the following indications:
Xolair is administered subcutaneously every two or four weeks, with the interval determined by body weight and pre-treatment IgE level. It can be given in the office or as a self-injected at home for appropriate patients.
The manufacturer offers a patient support program — Genentech Access Solutions — that can help with insurance navigation, copay assistance for eligible patients, nursing support, and ongoing education. More information is available at https://www.genentech-access.com/patient.html.
Treatment with Xolair is initiated and monitored by Dr. McNeil. Prior authorizations are handled in-house — patients are not asked to navigate insurance approvals on their own. This is a subcutaneous self-administered medication. After prior authorization, the prescription is sent to a specialty pharmacy that ships the medication directly to the patient. A manufacturer-sponsored nurse or office-based training visit is typically arranged for the first dose so patients are confident with self-administration before continuing at home.
Important safety note: This page is not a substitute for the FDA prescribing information. Risks, contraindications, drug interactions, and required monitoring vary by patient. The official manufacturer website (https://www.xolair.com) provides the most current full prescribing and safety information. Treatment decisions and monitoring are individualized — please discuss with Dr. McNeil whether Xolair is appropriate for your situation.
Donald L. McNeil, MD · Board Certified in Allergy & Immunology and Internal Medicine
This page is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. If you have an emergency, call 911.