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Helpful Resources for Your Practice

XOLAIR Access Solutions offers a range of access and reimbursement resources for your patients and practice after XOLAIR is prescribed, including help with benefits investigations (BIs), resources for prior authorizations (PAs), sample billing and coding information, resources for denials and appeals, information about distribution and referrals to potential financial assistance options.


Coverage

Get help understanding insurance benefits and coverage, such as with benefits investigations and prior authorization resources.

Benefits Investigations

XOLAIR Access Solutions can conduct a benefits investigation (BI) which can determine:

  • If treatment is covered
  • If treatment is denied
  • If a prior authorization or pre-determination is required*
  • If your patient's insurance plan has a mandated or preferred specialty pharmacy

*If your patient’s request for a prior authorization is not granted, your XOLAIR Access Solutions specialist can work with you to determine your next steps.

Get started with enrollment by following the steps below.

Option 1: Submit online

If your practice has a registered account for My Patient Solutions, you can get started by logging into your account.

Don't have an account?

Your patient is required to complete the Patient Consent Form. You can either upload their Patient Consent Form as part of your application or have your patient submit the form via fax, text or e-submit.

  • An online tool to help you enroll patients in XOLAIR Access Solutions and manage your service requests at your convenience.

Option 2: Print & fax or text

Step 1: Print one of the Patient Consent Forms below for your patient to complete.

Step 2: Print and complete the Prescriber Service Form below.

Step 3: Submit the completed forms via fax or text.

Both forms are required. We must have both the Patient Consent Form and the Prescriber Service Form before we can help you.

What to expect next:

  • The request will be processed within five business days upon receipt of both required forms.
  • Your office will be contacted to discuss any next steps.

The completion and submission of coverage- or reimbursement-related documentation are the responsibility of the patient and healthcare provider. Genentech makes no representation or guarantee concerning coverage or reimbursement for any service or item.

XOLAIR Starter Program

Patients facing a coverage delay may be eligible for the XOLAIR Starter Program while awaiting insurance verification. If you would like your patient considered for the XOLAIR Starter Program, you can indicate that when enrolling in XOLAIR Access Solutions with the Prescriber Service Form. You will also need to have your patient complete the Patient Consent Form.

Eligible patients can receive up to a 30-day supply of XOLAIR. Once coverage has been determined, the patient no longer qualifies for the XOLAIR Starter Program.

Subject to eligibility requirements and terms and conditions. This program is void where prohibited by law and may not be used in or by residents of restricted states, if applicable.

View full TERMS AND CONDITIONS

XOLAIR Benefits Recertification

When a medical treatment is authorized by the patient’s insurance plan for a limited period of time, it will generally require recertification of coverage for continued treatment. XOLAIR Access Solutions can help you obtain recertification for your patients.

If the patient’s health insurance plan denies the request for recertification, your practice may file an appeal on behalf of your patient.


Reimbursement

Sample coding information and resources for denials and appeals

XOLAIR Sample Coding

This coding information may assist you as you complete the payer forms for XOLAIR. These tables are provided for informational purposes only. Please visit CMS.gov or other payers’ websites to obtain additional guidance on their processes related to billing and coding.

Correct coding is the responsibility of the provider submitting the claim for the item or service. Please check with the payer to verify codes and special billing requirements. Genentech does not make any representation or guarantee concerning reimbursement or coverage for any service or item.

Appeals

If your patient’s health insurance plan has issued a denial, your XOLAIR Access Solutions specialist can provide resources as you prepare an appeal submission, as per your patient’s plan requirements. 

If a plan issues a denial: 

  1. The denial should be reviewed, along with the health insurance plan’s guidelines to determine what to include in your patient’s appeal submission.
  2. Your XOLAIR Access Solutions specialist has local payer coverage expertise and can help you determine specific requirements for your patient.

A sample appeal letter and additional considerations are available on the Practice Forms & Documents page.

Appeals cannot be completed or submitted by Genentech on your behalf.


Online Patient Enrollment

My Patient Solutions is an online tool to help you enroll patients in XOLAIR Access Solutions and manage your service requests, all through one portal. It allows you the flexibility to work with XOLAIR Access Solutions when it’s convenient for you.

With My Patient Solutions, you can:

  • Enroll and re-enroll patients in XOLAIR Access Solutions and/or the Genentech Patient Foundation
  • View Genentech Patient Foundation eligibility and coordinate shipment
  • Communicate with your XOLAIR Access Solutions specialist
  • Easily identify next steps for service requests
  • View Benefits Investigation reports for all your enrolled patients
  • Follow up on prior authorizations or appeals

How to register

Account registration can be completed by one person for the entire practice and for multiple practice locations. For help with registration or if you have questions, call us at 877-GENENTECH (877-436-3683) (6AM-5PM PST, Monday through Friday).


XOLAIR Distribution

Genentech has contracted with a network of authorized specialty distributors and specialty pharmacies (SPs) to service practices choosing to prescribe XOLAIR. 

These partners have made a commitment to product integrity and have agreed to distribute only products purchased directly from Genentech and not to distribute XOLAIR through secondary channels.

Authorized Distributors

For a full list of authorized distributors, please visit the Genentech Access Solutions website or contact XOLAIR Access Solutions at 800-704-6610.

About Buy and Bill

With Buy and Bill, the practice purchases the medication in advance, then bills the patient's health insurance plan for reimbursement. The practice is responsible for storing and handling the drug as well as collecting the patient's co-pay for both the drug and its administration. With Buy and Bill, practices can maintain a stock of the drug, giving them the flexibility to treat patients when clinically appropriate.

About Specialty Pharmacies

XOLAIR Access Solutions works with specialty pharmacies (SPs) to help patients receive their prescribed Genentech medicines.

In addition to distributing medicines, an SP may provide the following services:

  • Reimbursement resources
  • Clinical services to support patients throughout their treatment
  • The ability to manage the specialty handling and shipping needs linked with many specialty therapies

You can work with your preferred SP or contact XOLAIR Access Solutions to learn which SP the patient’s health insurance plan mandates or prefers.

For a full list of in-network specialty pharmacies, please visit the Genentech Access Solutions website or contact XOLAIR Access Solutions at 800-704-6610.

Genentech does not influence or advocate the use of any one specialty distributor or specialty pharmacy. We make no representation or guarantee of service or coverage of any item. For any product-specific distribution questions, call XOLAIR Access Solutions at 800-704-6610 (6AM-5PM PST, Monday through Friday).


Product Issues

We are serious about patient safety. If your Genentech product is spoiled, expired or damaged, we may be able to help you replace it.

Please contact Genentech Customer Service at 800-551-2231 for any order or return-related questions.

Contact Us

Need more help? Contact XOLAIR Access Solutions

Call 800-704-6610 (Mon.–Fri., 6AM–5PM PST).

Financial support

Financial Support

Find the right financial resources option for your patients.

  • We are open from 6AM-5PM PST, Mon. through Fri., except for the following holidays:

    • New Year’s Day
    • Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
    • Memorial Day
    • Juneteenth
    • Independence Day
    • Labor Day
    • Thanksgiving Holiday (Thursday and Friday)
    • Christmas Day
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      Saini SS, Bindslev-Jensen C, Maurer M, et al. Efficacy and safety of omalizumab in patients with chronic idiopathic/spontaneous urticaria who remain symptomatic on H1 antihistamines: a randomized, placebo-controlled study [published correction appears in J Invest Dermatol. 2015;135(3):925]. J Invest Dermatol. 2015;135(1):67-75.

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      Maurer M, Rosén K, Hsieh H-J, et al. Omalizumab for the treatment of chronic idiopathic or spontaneous urticaria [published correction appears in N Engl J Med. 2013;368(24)(suppl):2340-2341]. N Engl J Med. 2013;368(10):924-935.

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      Zuberbier T, Abdul Latiff AH, Abuzakouk M, et al. The international EAACI/GA2LEN/EuroGuiDerm/APAAACI guideline for the definition, classification, diagnosis, and management of urticaria [published online ahead of print, September 18, 2021]. Allergy. 2021;10.1111/all.15090. doi:10.1111/all.15090

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    • Castillo JR, Peters SP, Busse WW. Asthma exacerbations: pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2017;5(4):918-927.

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      Antonova E, Raimundo K, Trzaskoma B, Solari PG, Omachi T, Zazzali JL. Improvement of sleep in patients with chronic idiopathic/spontaneous urticaria (CIU/CSU) treated with omalizumab: results of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial (GLACIAL). Poster presented at: the 2014 Annual Scientific Meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology; November 6–10, 2014; Atlanta, GA.

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      Casale TB, Murphy TR, Holden M, et al. Impact of omalizumab on patient-reported outcomes in chronic idiopathic urticaria: results from XTEND-CIU, a 48-week, randomized, placebo-controlled study. Poster presented at: the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI)/World Allergy Organization (WAO) Joint Congress; March 2–5, 2018; Orlando, FL.

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      Hollis K, Proctor C, McBride D, et al. Comparison of Urticaria Activity Score Over 7 Days (UAS7) values obtained from once-daily and twice-daily versions: results from the ASSURE-CSU study. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2018;19(2):267​-274.

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      US Dept of Agriculture. Food allergies. Updated March 21, 2024. Accessed July 25, 2024. https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/food-allergies#2

    • Warren CM, Aktas ON, Manalo LJ, Bartell TR, Gupta RS. The epidemiology of multifood allergy in the United States: a population-based study. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2023;130(5):637​-648.e5.

      Warren CM, Aktas ON, Manalo LJ, Bartell TR, Gupta RS. The epidemiology of multifood allergy in the United States: a population-based study. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2023;130(5):637​-648.e5.

    • Gupta RS, Warren CM, Smith BM, et al. The public health impact of parent-reported childhood food allergies in the United States. Pediatrics. 2018;142(6):e20181235.

      Gupta RS, Warren CM, Smith BM, et al. The public health impact of parent-reported childhood food allergies in the United States. Pediatrics. 2018;142(6):e20181235.

    • US Census Bureau. Age and Sex, American Community Survey, ACS 1-Year Estimates Subject Tables, Table S0101, 2022. Accessed July 22, 2024. https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST1Y2022.S0101

      US Census Bureau. Age and Sex, American Community Survey, ACS 1-Year Estimates Subject Tables, Table S0101, 2022. Accessed July 22, 2024. https://data.census.gov/table/ACSST1Y2022.S0101

    • Clark S, Espinola J, Rudders SA, Banerji A, Camargo CA. Frequency of US emergency department visits for food-related acute allergic reactions. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;127(3):682​-683.

      Clark S, Espinola J, Rudders SA, Banerji A, Camargo CA. Frequency of US emergency department visits for food-related acute allergic reactions. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;127(3):682​-683.

    • Sampson HA, Aceves S, Bock SA, et al. Food allergy: a practice parameter update–2014. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2014;134(5): 1016-​1025.e43.

      Sampson HA, Aceves S, Bock SA, et al. Food allergy: a practice parameter update–2014. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2014;134(5): 1016-​1025.e43.

    • Boyce JA, Assa’ad Amal, Burks AW, et al; NIAID-Sponsored Expert Panel. Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of food allergy in the United States: report of the NIAID-sponsored expert panel. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;126(suppl 6):S1-S58.

      Boyce JA, Assa’ad Amal, Burks AW, et al; NIAID-Sponsored Expert Panel. Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of food allergy in the United States: report of the NIAID-sponsored expert panel. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;126(suppl 6):S1-S58.

    • Santos AF, Riggioni C, Agache I, et al. EAACI guidelines on the diagnosis of IgE-mediated food allergy. Allergy. 2023;78(12):3057​-3076.

      Santos AF, Riggioni C, Agache I, et al. EAACI guidelines on the diagnosis of IgE-mediated food allergy. Allergy. 2023;78(12):3057​-3076.

    • Oettgen HC. Mast cells in food allergy: inducing immediate reactions and shaping long-term immunity. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2023;151(1):21-25.

      Oettgen HC. Mast cells in food allergy: inducing immediate reactions and shaping long-term immunity. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2023;151(1):21-25.

    • Anvari S, Miller J, Yeh CY, Davis CM. IgE-mediated food allergy. Clinic Rev Allergy Immunol. 2019;57(2):244​-260.

      Anvari S, Miller J, Yeh CY, Davis CM. IgE-mediated food allergy. Clinic Rev Allergy Immunol. 2019;57(2):244​-260.

    • Zablotsky B, Black LI, Akinbami LJ. Diagnosed allergic conditions in children aged 0–17 years: United States, 2021. NCHS Data Brief. 2023;(459):1-8.

      Zablotsky B, Black LI, Akinbami LJ. Diagnosed allergic conditions in children aged 0–17 years: United States, 2021. NCHS Data Brief. 2023;(459):1-8.

    • Mahdavinia M, Fox SR, Smith BM, et al. Racial differences in food allergy phenotype and health care utilization among US children. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2017;5(2):352​-357.e1.

      Mahdavinia M, Fox SR, Smith BM, et al. Racial differences in food allergy phenotype and health care utilization among US children. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2017;5(2):352​-357.e1.

    • Sicherer SH, Sampson HA. Food allergy: a review and update on epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and management. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2018;141(1):41-58.

      Sicherer SH, Sampson HA. Food allergy: a review and update on epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and management. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2018;141(1):41-58.

    • Lieberman JA, Chehade M. Use of omalizumab in the treatment of food allergy and anaphylaxis. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2013;13(1):78-84.

      Lieberman JA, Chehade M. Use of omalizumab in the treatment of food allergy and anaphylaxis. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2013;13(1):78-84.

    • El Ansari YS, Kanagaratham C, Oettgen HC. Mast cells as regulators of adaptive immune responses in food allergy. Yale J Biol Med. 2020;93(5):711​-718.

      El Ansari YS, Kanagaratham C, Oettgen HC. Mast cells as regulators of adaptive immune responses in food allergy. Yale J Biol Med. 2020;93(5):711​-718.

    • Ruiter B, Shreffler WG. The role of dendritic cells in food allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;129(4):921​-928.

      Ruiter B, Shreffler WG. The role of dendritic cells in food allergy. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2012;129(4):921​-928.

    • Gupta S, Warren C, Seetasith A, Schuldt R, Gupta R, Casale TB. Mental health concerns of patients and their caregivers in the food allergy research & education (FARE) patient registry add to the burden of food allergy. Poster presented at: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) 2023 Annual Scientific Meeting; February 24-27, 2023; San Antonio, TX.

      Gupta S, Warren C, Seetasith A, Schuldt R, Gupta R, Casale TB. Mental health concerns of patients and their caregivers in the food allergy research & education (FARE) patient registry add to the burden of food allergy. Poster presented at: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) 2023 Annual Scientific Meeting; February 24-27, 2023; San Antonio, TX.

    • Vandenplas Y. Prevention and management of cow’s milk allergy in non-exclusively breastfed infants. Nutrients. 2017;9(7):731.

      Vandenplas Y. Prevention and management of cow’s milk allergy in non-exclusively breastfed infants. Nutrients. 2017;9(7):731.

    • Don’t let hidden holiday allergies ruin your good cheer. American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published April 11, 2019. Accessed February 12, 2024. https://acaai.org/news/dont-let-hidden-holiday-allergies-ruin-your-good-cheer/

      Don’t let hidden holiday allergies ruin your good cheer. American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Published April 11, 2019. Accessed February 12, 2024. https://acaai.org/news/dont-let-hidden-holiday-allergies-ruin-your-good-cheer/

    • Hill DJ, Heine RG, Hosking CS. The diagnostic value of skin prick testing in children with food allergy. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2004;15(5):435​-441.

      Hill DJ, Heine RG, Hosking CS. The diagnostic value of skin prick testing in children with food allergy. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2004;15(5):435​-441.

    • Fierstein JL, Brown D, Gupta R, Bilaver L. Understanding food-related allergic reactions through a US national patient registry. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2021;9(1):206​-215.e1.

      Fierstein JL, Brown D, Gupta R, Bilaver L. Understanding food-related allergic reactions through a US national patient registry. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2021;9(1):206​-215.e1.

    • Permaul P, Stutius LM, Sheehan WJ, et al. Sesame allergy: role of specific IgE and skin-prick testing in predicting food challenge results. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2009;30(6):643​-648.

      Permaul P, Stutius LM, Sheehan WJ, et al. Sesame allergy: role of specific IgE and skin-prick testing in predicting food challenge results. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2009;30(6):643​-648.

    • Soy. American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Updated April 9, 2019. Accessed July 22, 2024. https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/food/soy/

      Soy. American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. Updated April 9, 2019. Accessed July 22, 2024. https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/food/soy/

    • Sokol K, Rasooly M, Dempsey C, et al. Prevalence and diagnosis of sesame allergy in children with IgE-mediated food allergy. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2020;31(2):214​-218.

      Sokol K, Rasooly M, Dempsey C, et al. Prevalence and diagnosis of sesame allergy in children with IgE-mediated food allergy. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2020;31(2):214​-218.

    • Verstege A, Mehl A, Rolinck-Werninghaus C, et al. The predictive value of the skin prick test weal size for the outcome of oral food challenges. Clin Exp Allergy. 2005;35(9):1220​-1226.

      Verstege A, Mehl A, Rolinck-Werninghaus C, et al. The predictive value of the skin prick test weal size for the outcome of oral food challenges. Clin Exp Allergy. 2005;35(9):1220​-1226.

    • Giannetti A, Ruggi A, Ricci G, Giannì G, Caffarelli C. Natural history of hazelnut allergy and current approach to its diagnosis and treatment. Children (Basel). 2023;10(3):585.

      Giannetti A, Ruggi A, Ricci G, Giannì G, Caffarelli C. Natural history of hazelnut allergy and current approach to its diagnosis and treatment. Children (Basel). 2023;10(3):585.

    • Cortot CF, Sheehan WJ, Permaul P, et al. Role of specific IgE and skin-prick testing in predicting food challenge results to baked egg. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2012;33(3):275​-281.

      Cortot CF, Sheehan WJ, Permaul P, et al. Role of specific IgE and skin-prick testing in predicting food challenge results to baked egg. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2012;33(3):275​-281.

    • Koplin JJ, Perrett KP, Sampson HA. Diagnosing peanut allergy with fewer oral food challenges. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2019;7(2):375​-380.

      Koplin JJ, Perrett KP, Sampson HA. Diagnosing peanut allergy with fewer oral food challenges. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2019;7(2):375​-380.

    • Feng C, Kim JH. Beyond avoidance: the psychosocial impact of food allergies. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2019;57(1):74-82.

      Feng C, Kim JH. Beyond avoidance: the psychosocial impact of food allergies. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2019;57(1):74-82.

    • Chokshi NY, Maskatia Z, Miller S, Guffey D, Minard CG, Davis CM. Risk factors in pediatric shrimp allergy. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2015;36(4):65-71.

      Chokshi NY, Maskatia Z, Miller S, Guffey D, Minard CG, Davis CM. Risk factors in pediatric shrimp allergy. Allergy Asthma Proc. 2015;36(4):65-71.

    • Saleh-Langenberg J, Flokstra-de Blok BM, Goossens NJ, Kemna JC, van der Velde JL, Dubois AE. The compliance and burden of treatment with the epinephrine auto-injector in food-allergic adolescents. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2016;27(1):28-34.

      Saleh-Langenberg J, Flokstra-de Blok BM, Goossens NJ, Kemna JC, van der Velde JL, Dubois AE. The compliance and burden of treatment with the epinephrine auto-injector in food-allergic adolescents. Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2016;27(1):28-34.

    • Portnoy JM. Appropriate allergy testing and interpretation. Mo Med. 2011;108(5):339​-343.

      Portnoy JM. Appropriate allergy testing and interpretation. Mo Med. 2011;108(5):339​-343.

    • Sicherer SH, Warren CM, Dant C, Gupta RS, Nadeau KC. Food allergy from infancy through adulthood. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2020;8(6):1854​-1864.

      Sicherer SH, Warren CM, Dant C, Gupta RS, Nadeau KC. Food allergy from infancy through adulthood. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2020;8(6):1854​-1864.

    • Li PH, Rutkowski K, Kennard L, et al. Challenge-confirmed peanut allergy in older patients: performance of skin tests, specific immunoglobulin E, and ara h 2. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2018;120(3):334​-335.

      Li PH, Rutkowski K, Kennard L, et al. Challenge-confirmed peanut allergy in older patients: performance of skin tests, specific immunoglobulin E, and ara h 2. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2018;120(3):334​-335.

    • Groetch M, Mudd K, Woch M, et al. Retail food equivalents for post-oral immunotherapy dosing in the Omalizumab as Monotherapy and as Adjunct Therapy to Multi-Allergen Oral Immunotherapy in Food-Allergic Children and Adults (OUtMATCH) clinical trial. J Allergy Immunol Pract. 2023;11(2):572​-580.e2.

      Groetch M, Mudd K, Woch M, et al. Retail food equivalents for post-oral immunotherapy dosing in the Omalizumab as Monotherapy and as Adjunct Therapy to Multi-Allergen Oral Immunotherapy in Food-Allergic Children and Adults (OUtMATCH) clinical trial. J Allergy Immunol Pract. 2023;11(2):572​-580.e2.

    IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

    INDICATION

    XOLAIR® (omalizumab) is indicated for:
    • The treatment of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older who remain symptomatic despite H1 antihistamine treatment.


      Limitations of Use: XOLAIR is not indicated for treatment of other forms of urticaria.

    WARNING: Anaphylaxis

    Anaphylaxis presenting as bronchospasm, hypotension, syncope, urticaria, and/or angioedema of the throat or tongue, has been reported to occur after administration of XOLAIR. Anaphylaxis has occurred as early as after the first dose of XOLAIR, but also has occurred beyond 1 year after beginning regularly administered treatment. Because of the risk of anaphylaxis, initiate XOLAIR therapy in a healthcare setting and closely observe patients for an appropriate period of time after XOLAIR administration. Health care providers administering XOLAIR should be prepared to manage anaphylaxis which can be life-threatening. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and instruct them to seek immediate medical care should symptoms occur. Selection of patients for self-administration of XOLAIR should be based on criteria to mitigate risk from anaphylaxis.


    CONTRAINDICATIONS

    XOLAIR is contraindicated in patients with a severe hypersensitivity reaction to XOLAIR or to any ingredient of XOLAIR.

    WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

    Anaphylaxis: Anaphylaxis has been reported to occur after administration of XOLAIR in premarketing clinical trials and in postmarketing spontaneous reports. In premarketing clinical trials in patients for a different indication, anaphylaxis was reported in 3 of 3507 (0.1%) patients. Anaphylaxis occurred with the first dose of XOLAIR in two patients and with the fourth dose in one patient. The time to onset of anaphylaxis was 90 minutes after administration in two patients and 2 hours after administration in one patient.

    A case-control study in asthma patients showed that, among XOLAIR users, patients with a history of anaphylaxis to foods, medications, or other causes were at increased risk of anaphylaxis associated with XOLAIR, compared to those with no prior history of anaphylaxis.

    In postmarketing spontaneous reports, the frequency of anaphylaxis attributed to XOLAIR use was estimated to be at least 0.2% of patients based on an estimated exposure of about 57,300 patients from June 2003 through December 2006. Approximately 60% to 70% of anaphylaxis cases have been reported to occur within the first three doses of XOLAIR, with additional cases occurring sporadically beyond the third dose.

    Initiate XOLAIR only in a healthcare setting equipped to manage anaphylaxis which can be life-threatening. Observe patients closely for an appropriate period of time after administration of XOLAIR, taking into account the time to onset of anaphylaxis seen in premarketing clinical trials and postmarketing spontaneous reports. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, and instruct them to seek immediate medical care should signs or symptoms occur.

    Once XOLAIR therapy has been established, administration of XOLAIR prefilled syringe or autoinjector outside of a healthcare setting by a patient or a caregiver may be appropriate for selected patients. Patient selection, determined by the healthcare provider in consultation with the patient, should take into account the pattern of anaphylaxis events seen in premarketing clinical trials and postmarketing spontaneous reports, as well as individual patient risk factors (e.g. prior history of anaphylaxis), ability to recognize signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, and ability to perform subcutaneous injections with XOLAIR prefilled syringe or autoinjector with proper technique according to the prescribed dosing regimen and Instructions for Use.

    Discontinue XOLAIR in patients who experience a severe hypersensitivity reaction.

    Malignancy: Malignant neoplasms were observed in 20 of 4127 (0.5%) XOLAIR-treated patients compared with 5 of 2236 (0.2%) control patients in clinical studies of adults and adolescents (≥12 years of age) for a different indication and other allergic disorders. The observed malignancies in XOLAIR-treated patients were a variety of types, with breast, non-melanoma skin, prostate, melanoma, and parotid occurring more than once, and five other types occurring once each. The majority of patients were observed for less than 1 year. The impact of longer exposure to XOLAIR or use in patients at higher risk for malignancy (e.g., elderly, current smokers) is not known.

    A subsequent 5-year observational study of 5007 XOLAIR-treated and 2829 non-XOLAIR-treated adolescent and adult patients for a different indication found that the incidence rates of primary malignancies (per 1000 patient years) were similar in both groups (12.3 vs 13.0, respectively). Study limitations which include the observational study design, the bias introduced by allowing enrollment of patients previously exposed to XOLAIR (88%), enrollment of patients (56%) while a history of cancer or a premalignant condition were study exclusion criteria, and the high study discontinuation rate (44%) preclude definitively ruling out a malignancy risk with XOLAIR.

    Corticosteroid Reduction: In CSU patients, the use of XOLAIR in combination with corticosteroids has not been evaluated.

    Fever, Arthralgia, and Rash: In post-approval use, some patients have experienced a constellation of signs and symptoms, including arthritis/arthralgia, rash, fever, and lymphadenopathy with an onset 1 to 5 days after the first or subsequent injections of XOLAIR. These signs and symptoms have recurred after additional doses in some patients. Physicians should stop XOLAIR if a patient develops this constellation of signs and symptoms.

    Parasitic (Helminth) Infection: Monitor patients at high risk of geohelminth infection while on XOLAIR therapy. Insufficient data are available to determine the length of monitoring required for geohelminth infections after stopping XOLAIR treatment.

    Laboratory Tests: Due to formation of XOLAIR:IgE complexes, serum total IgE levels increase following administration of XOLAIR and may remain elevated for up to 1 year following discontinuation of XOLAIR.

    Potential Medication Error Related to Emergency Treatment of Anaphylaxis
    XOLAIR should not be used for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. In studies to simulate use, some patients and caregivers did not understand that XOLAIR is not intended for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. The safety and effectiveness of XOLAIR for emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have not been established. Instruct patients that XOLAIR is for maintenance use to reduce allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, while avoiding food allergens.

    ADVERSE REACTIONS

    Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: The most common adverse reactions (≥2% incidence in XOLAIR-treated patients and more frequent than in placebo) for XOLAIR 150 mg and 300 mg, respectively, included: headache (12%, 6%), nasopharyngitis (9%, 7%), arthralgia (3%, 3%), viral upper respiratory infection (2%, 1%), nausea (1%, 3%), sinusitis (1%, 5%), upper respiratory tract infection (1%, 3%), and cough (1%, 2%).

    Injection Site Reactions: Injection site reactions of any severity occurred in more XOLAIR-treated patients (11 patients [2.7%] at 300 mg, 1 patient [0.6%] at 150 mg) compared with 2 placebo-treated patients (0.8%). The types of injection site reactions included: swelling, erythema, pain, bruising, itching, bleeding, and urticaria. None of the events resulted in study discontinuation or treatment interruption.

    Injection Site Reactions in Healthy Adults: In an open label trial in healthy adults, in which the 300 mg/2 mL autoinjector was compared to the 300 mg/2 mL prefilled syringe, injection site reactions (e.g., induration, pain, erythema, hemorrhage, swelling, discomfort, bruising, hypoesthesia, edema, pruritus) were observed in 24% (16/66) of subjects treated with the autoinjector compared with 14% (9/64) of subjects treated with the prefilled syringe.

    Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Events from Clinical Studies in Patients with Asthma: A 5-year observational study was conducted in 5007 XOLAIR-treated and 2829 non-XOLAIR-treated patients ≥12 years of age for a different indication to evaluate the long term safety of XOLAIR, including the risk of malignancy. The results suggest a potential increased risk of serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in patients treated with XOLAIR, however the observational study design, the inclusion of patients previously exposed to XOLAIR (88% for a mean of 8 months), baseline imbalances in cardiovascular risk factors between the treatment groups, an inability to adjust for unmeasured risk factors, and the high study discontinuation rate (44%) limit the ability to quantify the magnitude of the risk.

    Pregnancy: Data with XOLAIR use in pregnant women are insufficient to inform on drug associated risk.

    You may report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to Genentech at (888) 835-2555 or Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation at (888) 669-6682.

    Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING and Medication Guide, for additional Important Safety Information.

    WARNING: Anaphylaxis

    Anaphylaxis presenting as bronchospasm, hypotension, syncope, urticaria, and/or angioedema of the throat or tongue, has been reported to occur after administration of XOLAIR. Anaphylaxis has occurred as early as after the first dose of XOLAIR, but also has occurred beyond 1 year after beginning regularly administered treatment. Because of the risk of anaphylaxis, initiate XOLAIR therapy in a healthcare setting and closely observe patients for an appropriate period of time after XOLAIR administration. Health care providers administering XOLAIR should be prepared to manage anaphylaxis which can be life-threatening. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and instruct them to seek immediate medical care should symptoms occur. Selection of patients for self-administration of XOLAIR should be based on criteria to mitigate risk from anaphylaxis.

    INDICATION

    XOLAIR® (omalizumab) is indicated for:
    • The treatment of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older who remain symptomatic despite H1 antihistamine treatment.


      Limitations of Use: XOLAIR is not indicated for treatment of other forms of urticaria.


    CONTRAINDICATIONS

    XOLAIR is contraindicated in patients with a severe hypersensitivity reaction to XOLAIR or to any ingredient of XOLAIR.

    WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

    Anaphylaxis: Anaphylaxis has been reported to occur after administration of XOLAIR in premarketing clinical trials and in postmarketing spontaneous reports. In premarketing clinical trials in patients for a different indication, anaphylaxis was reported in 3 of 3507 (0.1%) patients. Anaphylaxis occurred with the first dose of XOLAIR in two patients and with the fourth dose in one patient. The time to onset of anaphylaxis was 90 minutes after administration in two patients and 2 hours after administration in one patient.

    A case-control study in asthma patients showed that, among XOLAIR users, patients with a history of anaphylaxis to foods, medications, or other causes were at increased risk of anaphylaxis associated with XOLAIR, compared to those with no prior history of anaphylaxis.

    In postmarketing spontaneous reports, the frequency of anaphylaxis attributed to XOLAIR use was estimated to be at least 0.2% of patients based on an estimated exposure of about 57,300 patients from June 2003 through December 2006. Approximately 60% to 70% of anaphylaxis cases have been reported to occur within the first three doses of XOLAIR, with additional cases occurring sporadically beyond the third dose.

    Initiate XOLAIR only in a healthcare setting equipped to manage anaphylaxis which can be life-threatening. Observe patients closely for an appropriate period of time after administration of XOLAIR, taking into account the time to onset of anaphylaxis seen in premarketing clinical trials and postmarketing spontaneous reports. Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, and instruct them to seek immediate medical care should signs or symptoms occur.

    Once XOLAIR therapy has been established, administration of XOLAIR prefilled syringe or autoinjector outside of a healthcare setting by a patient or a caregiver may be appropriate for selected patients. Patient selection, determined by the healthcare provider in consultation with the patient, should take into account the pattern of anaphylaxis events seen in premarketing clinical trials and postmarketing spontaneous reports, as well as individual patient risk factors (e.g. prior history of anaphylaxis), ability to recognize signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, and ability to perform subcutaneous injections with XOLAIR prefilled syringe or autoinjector with proper technique according to the prescribed dosing regimen and Instructions for Use.

    Discontinue XOLAIR in patients who experience a severe hypersensitivity reaction.

    Malignancy: Malignant neoplasms were observed in 20 of 4127 (0.5%) XOLAIR-treated patients compared with 5 of 2236 (0.2%) control patients in clinical studies of adults and adolescents (≥12 years of age) for a different indication and other allergic disorders. The observed malignancies in XOLAIR-treated patients were a variety of types, with breast, non-melanoma skin, prostate, melanoma, and parotid occurring more than once, and five other types occurring once each. The majority of patients were observed for less than 1 year. The impact of longer exposure to XOLAIR or use in patients at higher risk for malignancy (e.g., elderly, current smokers) is not known.

    A subsequent 5-year observational study of 5007 XOLAIR-treated and 2829 non-XOLAIR-treated adolescent and adult patients for a different indication found that the incidence rates of primary malignancies (per 1000 patient years) were similar in both groups (12.3 vs 13.0, respectively). Study limitations which include the observational study design, the bias introduced by allowing enrollment of patients previously exposed to XOLAIR (88%), enrollment of patients (56%) while a history of cancer or a premalignant condition were study exclusion criteria, and the high study discontinuation rate (44%) preclude definitively ruling out a malignancy risk with XOLAIR.

    Corticosteroid Reduction: In CSU patients, the use of XOLAIR in combination with corticosteroids has not been evaluated.

    Fever, Arthralgia, and Rash: In post-approval use, some patients have experienced a constellation of signs and symptoms, including arthritis/arthralgia, rash, fever, and lymphadenopathy with an onset 1 to 5 days after the first or subsequent injections of XOLAIR. These signs and symptoms have recurred after additional doses in some patients. Physicians should stop XOLAIR if a patient develops this constellation of signs and symptoms.

    Parasitic (Helminth) Infection: Monitor patients at high risk of geohelminth infection while on XOLAIR therapy. Insufficient data are available to determine the length of monitoring required for geohelminth infections after stopping XOLAIR treatment.

    Laboratory Tests: Due to formation of XOLAIR:IgE complexes, serum total IgE levels increase following administration of XOLAIR and may remain elevated for up to 1 year following discontinuation of XOLAIR.

    Potential Medication Error Related to Emergency Treatment of Anaphylaxis
    XOLAIR should not be used for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. In studies to simulate use, some patients and caregivers did not understand that XOLAIR is not intended for the emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. The safety and effectiveness of XOLAIR for emergency treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, have not been established. Instruct patients that XOLAIR is for maintenance use to reduce allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, while avoiding food allergens.

    ADVERSE REACTIONS

    Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: The most common adverse reactions (≥2% incidence in XOLAIR-treated patients and more frequent than in placebo) for XOLAIR 150 mg and 300 mg, respectively, included: headache (12%, 6%), nasopharyngitis (9%, 7%), arthralgia (3%, 3%), viral upper respiratory infection (2%, 1%), nausea (1%, 3%), sinusitis (1%, 5%), upper respiratory tract infection (1%, 3%), and cough (1%, 2%).

    Injection Site Reactions: Injection site reactions of any severity occurred in more XOLAIR-treated patients (11 patients [2.7%] at 300 mg, 1 patient [0.6%] at 150 mg) compared with 2 placebo-treated patients (0.8%). The types of injection site reactions included: swelling, erythema, pain, bruising, itching, bleeding, and urticaria. None of the events resulted in study discontinuation or treatment interruption.

    Injection Site Reactions in Healthy Adults: In an open label trial in healthy adults, in which the 300 mg/2 mL autoinjector was compared to the 300 mg/2 mL prefilled syringe, injection site reactions (e.g., induration, pain, erythema, hemorrhage, swelling, discomfort, bruising, hypoesthesia, edema, pruritus) were observed in 24% (16/66) of subjects treated with the autoinjector compared with 14% (9/64) of subjects treated with the prefilled syringe.

    Cardiovascular and Cerebrovascular Events from Clinical Studies in Patients with Asthma: A 5-year observational study was conducted in 5007 XOLAIR-treated and 2829 non-XOLAIR-treated patients ≥12 years of age for a different indication to evaluate the long term safety of XOLAIR, including the risk of malignancy. The results suggest a potential increased risk of serious cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in patients treated with XOLAIR, however the observational study design, the inclusion of patients previously exposed to XOLAIR (88% for a mean of 8 months), baseline imbalances in cardiovascular risk factors between the treatment groups, an inability to adjust for unmeasured risk factors, and the high study discontinuation rate (44%) limit the ability to quantify the magnitude of the risk.

    Pregnancy: Data with XOLAIR use in pregnant women are insufficient to inform on drug associated risk.

    You may report side effects to the FDA at (800) FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. You may also report side effects to Genentech at (888) 835-2555 or Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation at (888) 669-6682.

    Please see full Prescribing Information, including Boxed WARNING and Medication Guide, for additional Important Safety Information.