Xolair is a revolutionary medication used to treat severe asthma and allergic reactions. But who makes this life-saving medication? In this article, we will explore the history of Xolair, what it is used to treat, and who manufactures it. Let’s dive in and learn more about this incredible drug.
Xolair is a prescription medication developed by Genentech and Novartis, two leading pharmaceutical companies. It is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat moderate-to-severe asthma in people 12 years and older.
Xolair: Who Makes It?
Xolair is a biologic medicine used in the treatment of moderate to severe allergic asthma and chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU). It is a genetically engineered monoclonal antibody (IgE) made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals and Genentech, a subsidiary of Roche.
Novartis Pharmaceuticals
Novartis Pharmaceuticals is a global healthcare company based in Basel, Switzerland. It was created in 1996, when Ciba-Geigy merged with Sandoz Laboratories. Novartis specializes in the development, manufacturing and marketing of prescription drugs and is one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world.
Genentech
Genentech is a biotechnology company that was founded in 1976 by venture capitalist Robert Swanson and biochemist Herbert Boyer. It is a subsidiary of the Swiss pharmaceutical company Roche and is headquartered in South San Francisco, California. Genentech specializes in the research and development of drugs, biologics and small molecules to treat unmet medical needs.
Production
Xolair is produced through recombinant DNA technology, a process in which the genes of a species are altered and inserted into another organism in order to produce a desired protein or enzyme. In this process, the gene for the human immunoglobulin E (IgE) is inserted into Chinese hamster ovary cells, which are then cultured in a nutrient medium. The cells are then harvested and the IgE protein is purified and formulated into the medicine.
Clinical Trials
Before Xolair was approved for use in the US, it underwent extensive clinical trials to test its safety and efficacy. The trials included more than 2,000 adults and adolescents with moderate to severe allergic asthma, and more than 2,400 adults with chronic idiopathic urticaria. The trials showed that Xolair was effective in reducing asthma exacerbations and CIU symptoms.
Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions
Who Makes Xolair?
Answer: Xolair is a prescription medicine manufactured and marketed by Genentech, Inc., a subsidiary of Roche. Genentech has been a leader in the biotechnology industry since 1976, developing and manufacturing innovative medicines that address unmet medical needs. Xolair was first approved in 2003 and is used to treat people 12 years of age and older with moderate to severe persistent allergic asthma and chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) in certain patients.
What is the Active Ingredient in Xolair?
Answer: The active ingredient in Xolair is omalizumab, a monoclonal antibody. It is a type of protein that binds to Immunoglobulin E (IgE) and helps reduce the allergic response. IgE is a type of antibody that is produced by the body in response to allergens. Omalizumab works by blocking IgE from binding to the mast cells and basophils, which are cells that are involved in the allergic response.
How Does Xolair Work?
Answer: Xolair works by blocking Immunoglobulin E (IgE) from binding to mast cells and basophils. When IgE binds to these cells, it triggers an allergic response. By blocking IgE, Xolair helps reduce the allergic response and the associated symptoms. Xolair is typically given as an injection, once every 2 or 4 weeks, depending on the patient’s condition.
What Conditions is Xolair Used To Treat?
Answer: Xolair is used to treat people 12 years of age and older with moderate to severe persistent allergic asthma and chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) in certain patients. In people with allergic asthma, Xolair helps reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. In people with CIU, Xolair helps reduce the severity and frequency of hives.
What Are the Possible Side Effects of Taking Xolair?
Answer: The most common side effects of taking Xolair include injection site reactions, upper respiratory tract infections, headache, and sinusitis. Other possible side effects include anaphylaxis, angioedema, and bronchospasm. It is important to speak to a healthcare provider about possible side effects before taking Xolair.
Who Should Not Take Xolair?
Answer: Xolair is not recommended for people who are allergic to omalizumab or any of the inactive ingredients in the medication. Xolair is also not recommended for people who have a history of anaphylaxis, angioedema, or bronchospasm. Xolair should not be used to treat acute asthma attacks. It is important to speak to a healthcare provider before starting Xolair to make sure it is safe to take.
Xolair is one of the most effective treatments for severe asthma and allergic diseases. Produced by Genentech, Inc., a member of the Roche Group, Xolair is a unique medication that helps reduce inflammation and improve breathing. It is manufactured under stringent conditions and meets the most stringent standards of quality and safety. With Xolair, patients can enjoy improved breathing and a better quality of life. Genentech, Inc. is dedicated to providing the best possible care to its patients, and Xolair is just one of the many treatments they offer. Thanks to Genentech’s commitment to excellence, those suffering from asthma and allergy-related conditions can now find relief in Xolair.