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Omalizumab Injection (OMALIZUMAB - INJECTION)

This medicine is used for the following purposes:

  • asthma
  • nasal polyps
  • skin rash

Brand Name(s): Xolair

Generic Name: Omalizumab

Instructions

The medicine needs to be mixed before being injected.

Keep medicine in refrigerator. Do not freeze. If frozen, throw away.

Protect medicine from light.

Take the medicine out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before use to warm to room temperature.

Inject the medicine immediately after mixing.

Injecting cold drug may be uncomfortable.

Never use any medicine that has expired.

It may take several weeks for this medicine to fully work.

It is important that you keep taking each dose of this medicine on time even if you are feeling well.

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for instructions.

Drug interactions can change how medicines work or increase risk for side effects. Tell your health care providers about all medicines taken. Include prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal medicines. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medicine.

Tell your doctor if symptoms do not get better or if they get worse.

Keep all appointments for medical exams and tests while on this medicine.

Cautions

Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

Do not use the medication any more than instructed.

Tell the doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, planning to be pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Ask your pharmacist how to properly throw away used needles or syringes.

Do not share this medicine with anyone who has not been prescribed this medicine.

Some patients have serious side effects from this medicine. Ask your pharmacist to show you the information from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and discuss it with you.

Side Effects

The following is a list of some common side effects from this medicine. Please speak with your doctor about what you should do if you experience these or other side effects.

  • increased risk of cancer
  • headaches
  • pain, redness, swelling near injection

Call your doctor or get medical help right away if you notice any of these more serious side effects:

  • severe allergic reaction
  • chest or jaw pain
  • confusion
  • cough that does not go away
  • dizziness
  • swelling of the face, mouth, tongue or throat
  • swelling of the legs, feet, and hands
  • fainting
  • fever or chills
  • numbness or tingling in hands and feet
  • itching
  • joint or muscle pain
  • unusual growth or lump on the neck
  • red, burning, or itchy skin
  • shortness of breath
  • skin changes - a darker area with uneven edges or coloring
  • change in the size or color of a skin mole
  • difficulty speaking
  • symptoms of stroke (such as one-sided weakness, slurred speech, confusion)
  • sweating
  • blurring or changes of vision

A few people may have an allergic reaction to this medicine. Symptoms can include difficulty breathing, skin rash, itching, swelling, or severe dizziness. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical help quickly.

Please speak with your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you have any questions about this medicine.