II. Indications (all required)

  1. See Severe Asthma
  2. Refractory moderate to Severe Persistent Asthma not controlled on Inhaled Corticosteroids
  3. Positive Allergy Testing for perennial inhaled allergen (e.g. mold, pollen, animal dander)
  4. Patients must be age 6 years or older

III. Mechanism

  1. Recombinant humanized Monoclonal Antibody (rhu-MAB)
  2. Blocks IgE binding to Mast Cells and Basophils
    1. Prevents release of Allergic Reaction mediators

IV. Dosing

  1. Approved for age >=6 years old
  2. Dose determined by serum IgE level
  3. Usually 150 to 375 mg SQ every 2 to 4 weeks
  4. Must be given in clinical setting with observation

V. Adverse Effects

  1. Serious and life-threatening
    1. May predispose to malignancy
    2. Anaphylaxis
      1. Requires administration in clinical setting
      2. Reaction may occur >2 hours after injection
  2. Other reactions
    1. Injection site reaction
    2. Upper Respiratory Infections (including Sinusitis, Pharyngitis)
    3. Headache
    4. Alopecia
    5. Musculoskeletal (Arthralgias, myalgias, limb pain)

VII. Safety

  1. Pregnancy Category B
  2. Unknown safety in Lactation

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