Omalizumab as add-on therapy to inhaled steroids for asthma.

ABSTRACT

In the US, subcutaneous administration of omalizumab is indicated for adults and adolescents (age greater than or equal to 12 years) with allergic asthma that is moderate to severe and inadequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids. In placebo-controlled trials, omalizumab reduces asthma exacerbations and the need for inhaled steroids in this group. The value of omalizumab to patients with severe asthma (e.g., refractory asthma) has yet to be proven. Data are lacking on the efficacy of omalizumab compared to add-on therapies such as inhaled long-acting beta-2 agonists or anti-leukotriene agents. Further evaluation on omalizumab needs to be done in the pediatric population.