When the body produces too much of the IgE protein, it can begin to cause allergic reactions. These effects vary and can include food and drug sensitivities, hay fever, and breathing issues. If you are among the many people in need of asthma treatment or allergy relief, consider the Xolair shot. Learn about this prescription injection and why it may be the perfect way to address your allergy needs.

What Do I Need To Know About The Xolair Shot?

What It Is

The only FDA-approved drug of its kind, Xolair binds to the IgE protein to neutralize its effects on the body. It prevents the protein from attaching to inflammatory cells and allergens in your environment to impede asthma symptoms. The drug was created exclusively for managing moderate to severe allergic asthma symptoms in patients six years or older. It is not a treatment for an asthma attack or a serious episode requiring professional medical care. Instead, it is a complementary asthma therapy for those who take inhaled corticosteroids as part of a regular treatment regimen. In addition to controlling asthma in patients allergic to dust mites and pet dander, it also benefits individuals with sensitivities to mold, cockroaches, and certain pollens.

Patients receive one to two injections in their upper arm every two to four weeks, depending on factors such as body weight and the level of IgE in their blood.

Common Side Effects & Benefits

While it can take several months for Xolair to control symptoms, it provides an effective asthma treatment for patients receiving routine injections. It reduces, if not eliminates, symptoms such as shortness of breath and wheezing. This allows patients to take back their lives and avoid losing time at work, school, and home. They can focus on enjoying themselves instead of wondering when their next attack will be or refraining from activities where allergen counts are high.

Common side effects associated with Xolair include rashes, muscle aches, fever, swelling of the tongue, lips, and face, weak or fast heartbeat, chest tightness and pain, new or worsening cough, joint pain, nausea, and ear pain. If you experience these or any other side effects after taking Xolair, visit your asthma treatment specialist or your local emergency room depending on the severity. If you are a Xolair candidate who receives the prescription correctly, side effects will likely be minimal. 

Discuss this innovative asthma treatment option with the doctor at Allergy and Asthma Specialty Center/Masood Ahmad, M.D. in West Chester, OH. Also featuring satellite offices in Georgetown and Lebanon, this asthma doctor has treated adults and children for over 25 years and provides in-depth consultations and treatment plans. They can decide if you are a candidate for Xolair and evaluate if this prescription injection can help alleviate issues ranging from pollen allergies to exercise-induced asthma. Call (513) 777-7097 today to make an appointment or learn more about asthma treatments online. Get additional wellness tips on Facebook.