STL Index for: Omalizumab

Recently updated and revised international guidelines suggest a step-wise approach to the management of chronic spontaneous urticaria. These guidelines suggest that first-line therapy should be second-generation non-impairing, non-sedating H1-antihistamines such as bilastine (BLEXTEN®).

Urticaria is a common, mast-cell-driven disease, characterized clinically by the development of wheals, angioedema, or both. A large body of data has demonstrated that omalizumab, a biologic agent, is safe and effective in the treatment of H1- antihistamine refractory urticaria and should be considered as a third-line agent, with cyclosporin A reserved for fourth-line therapy.

Omalizumab has emerged as a very promising treatment option for patients with CSU (Chronic spontaneous urticaria).This editorial reviews mechanisms of action of omalizumab, efficacy, cost and potential side effect profile.

Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is a common autoimmune skin condition characterized by spontaneously recurring hives for six weeks or longer. We review the mechanisms of action of omalizumab, efficacy, cost and potential side effect profile for treating CIU.

Chronic urticaria is defined as hives, typically occurring daily, for greater than 6 weeks duration. The associations between chronic urticaria, thyroid disease, and other autoimmune disorders, as well as the implications that this holds for therapeutic intervention are reviewed.