Humanized monoclonal anti-IgE antibody. Binds free IgE so it cannot attach to mast cells and basophils, and down-regulates their high-affinity IgE receptors. Blunts the allergic (type 2) cascade before it starts.
Dosing
Adult
75–375 mg SC every 2 or 4 weeks, from a table based on pre-treatment total IgE and body weight
Pediatric
Age 6–11: same weight/IgE dosing table (pediatric table)
Total IgE stays elevated on therapy (drug–IgE complexes), so do not re-test IgE to adjust the dose.
Indications
Moderate-to-severe persistent allergic asthma (age ≥6) with a positive skin or blood test to a perennial aeroallergen and IgE in the dosing range, uncontrolled on inhaled corticosteroids