Xolair: Side Effects, Uses, Dosage, Cost, and More

Xolair, also known by its generic name omalizumab, is a groundbreaking biologic treatment that has transformed how we manage moderate to severe allergic asthma, chronic hives, and nasal polyps. If you’re exploring new treatment options for allergy-related conditions, this guide offers everything you need to know about how Xolair works, who it's for, what to expect, and how much it might cost, all by Empower Allergy Treatment.

What is Xolair?

Xolair (omalizumab) is a monoclonal antibody therapy prescribed for people with allergic asthma, chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), or nasal polyps. It works by blocking immunoglobulin E (IgE), a key player in allergic reactions. By targeting IgE, Xolair helps reduce inflammation, prevent asthma attacks, and minimize allergic symptoms.

This biologic is often recommended for patients whose symptoms are not controlled with standard medications such as inhaled corticosteroids or antihistamines.

Looking for other modern allergy treatments? Learn more about our Services and Programs tailored to your unique needs.

How Xolair Works in the Body

Xolair binds to free IgE antibodies in the bloodstream before they can attach to cells that trigger allergic reactions. By lowering free IgE levels, Xolair helps to:

• Reduce allergic inflammation
• Prevent immune overreactions
• Minimize asthma attacks and allergic flare-ups
• Control symptoms of chronic hives and nasal congestion

Over time, this reduces your sensitivity to allergens and provides long-term relief.

Conditions Treated with Xolair

Xolair is FDA-approved to treat the following conditions:

1. Allergic Asthma

For people over 6 years old with moderate to severe asthma triggered by year-round allergens (dust mites, pet dander, mold, etc.).

2. Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU)

For adults and adolescents 12 years and older with chronic hives lasting longer than six weeks and unresponsive to antihistamines.

3. Nasal Polyps

Xolair is approved for nasal polyps treatment in adults whose symptoms aren’t well controlled with nasal corticosteroids.

We also offer personalized Oral Immunotherapy for food allergies, helping desensitize patients to peanut, milk, and other allergens.

Xolair Dosage and Administration

Xolair is administered by subcutaneous injection and typically given:

• Every 2 to 4 weeks
• In a clinical setting under medical supervision
• Based on body weight and IgE levels (for asthma)
• At a fixed dose for hives or nasal polyps

Your allergist will determine the correct dosage based on your condition and treatment response.

Xolair Side Effects: What to Watch Out For

Like any medication, Xolair can cause side effects. While many are mild, some may require medical attention.

Common Side Effects:

• Injection site reactions (bruising, redness, itching)
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Mild nausea

Less Common but Serious Side Effects:

• Anaphylaxis (a rare but serious allergic reaction)
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Dizziness or fainting

Your provider will monitor you after each injection to minimize any risk of adverse reactions. Most people tolerate the treatment well.

Who is a Candidate for Xolair?

Xolair may be a great option if:

• You have persistent asthma not controlled by standard inhalers
• You experience chronic hives that don’t respond to antihistamines
• You have nasal polyps and ongoing congestion or breathing problems
• Your IgE levels are within the qualifying range
• You are over the age of 6 (asthma) or 12 (CSU)

It’s important to undergo a complete allergy evaluation and diagnostic testing before starting Xolair therapy.

What Makes Xolair Different from Other Allergy Treatments?

Unlike medications that simply block symptoms, Xolair targets the underlying allergic mechanism. It is one of the first treatments to:

• Block IgE before it binds to mast cells
• Reduce the frequency of asthma-related hospital visits
• Provide relief for chronic urticaria beyond conventional therapies

Xolair can be combined with other treatments like antihistamines, nasal sprays, and Sublingual Immunotherapy for maximum effectiveness.

What Does Xolair Cost?

The cost of Xolair can vary depending on your dosage, insurance coverage, and the condition being treated.

General Cost Estimates:

• Per injection: $1,000 – $3,000 (without insurance)
• Monthly cost: $2,000 – $6,000 depending on frequency
• Annual cost: $24,000 – $72,000

Insurance Coverage

Many health plans and Medicare cover Xolair for FDA-approved uses. Check with your provider and pharmacy for your exact cost.

Copay Assistance

Pharmaceutical programs may reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Be sure to ask about financial assistance if eligible.

Monitoring and Long-Term Use

Xolair is usually prescribed for long-term management rather than quick symptom relief. Treatment duration depends on how well your symptoms respond and may last several months to years.

Patients receiving Xolair require:

• Periodic IgE level testing
• Lung function tests (for asthma)
• Regular visits with your allergy provider

Empower’s experienced care team will help track your progress and adjust your treatment as needed.

Patient Success Stories and Outcomes

At Empower Allergy Treatment, many patients have seen life-changing improvements with Xolair:

• Fewer asthma attacks and ER visits
• Reduced hives and itching
• Better breathing and sleep quality
• Improved daily functioning

We tailor every treatment to meet the specific health needs of our patients. Learn more About Us and our holistic allergy care philosophy.

Alternatives to Xolair

While Xolair is effective, it’s not the only option. Alternatives include:

• Dupixent (dupilumab) – for eczema, asthma, and nasal polyps
• Nucala, Fasenra – for eosinophilic asthma
• Allergy shots or drops – long-term desensitization
• Lifestyle adjustments – allergen avoidance, air purification, etc.

During your initial consultation, we’ll explore the best options for your condition and medical history.

How to Start Xolair Treatment

To begin Xolair therapy, you'll go through these steps:

1. Allergy and asthma evaluation
2. Blood work to determine IgE levels
3. Review of your full medical history
4. Trial period and symptom monitoring
5. Ongoing follow-ups to adjust dosing

If you're ready to explore whether Xolair is right for you, our allergy team is here to guide you through each step of the process.

Empower Allergy Treatment Can Help

At Empower Allergy Treatment, we specialize in modern, evidence-based solutions for food allergies, asthma, hives, and more. Whether you're considering Xolair (omalizumab) or curious about other biologics and therapies, we can help you find the safest and most effective path forward.

We offer comprehensive evaluations, access to advanced biologic treatments, and educational support every step of the way.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

Think Xolair could be right for you? Let’s talk.

We offer personalized allergy management, including Xolair therapy, Oral Immunotherapy, and more. Whether you're new to allergy care or seeking more advanced options, our team is here to help.

Final Thoughts

Xolair is more than a treatment—it’s a potential life-changer for those suffering from severe asthma, chronic hives, and nasal polyps. With proper diagnosis, ongoing monitoring, and expert care, Xolair offers hope for long-lasting relief from allergic symptoms that once felt impossible to control. Contact us today to see what Empower can do for you.