SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.— Genentech announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the company’s supplemental Biologics License Application for Xolair (omalizumab) prefilled syringe for self-injection across all approved U.S. indications. Xolair is the only FDA-approved biologic designed to target and block immunoglobulin E (IgE) for the treatment of moderate to severe persistent allergic asthma, chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) and nasal polyps.

“Today’s approval reflects our commitment to continued innovation with Xolair to address the critical needs of people living with allergic and inflammatory conditions,” said Dr. Levi Garraway, chief medical officer and head of Global Product Development. “Appropriate patients will now have the flexibility to administer Xolair from home, which is particularly important for those who are considered high-risk during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Before starting self-injection with Xolair prefilled syringe, the patient must have no prior history of anaphylaxis and be closely observed by a healthcare provider for at least three injections with no hypersensitivity (allergic reactions). After Xolair therapy has been initiated and safely established in a healthcare setting, a healthcare provider may determine whether self-injection with Xolair prefilled syringe by the patient or a caregiver is appropriate. The healthcare provider must train the patient or caregiver on the correct subcutaneous injection technique, how to recognize the signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis and how to treat anaphylaxis appropriately, before the first self-injection outside a healthcare setting.

“Expanding treatment options for personalized care and self-management is always welcome news for the patient community,” said Kenneth Mendez, CEO and President, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. “The possibility of administering FDA-approved treatment outside of the healthcare provider’s office, but still guided by that healthcare provider, may reduce barriers to care for patients and their caregivers.”

Approximately 460,000 patients have been treated in the U.S. with Xolair since its initial approval in 2003. The use of Xolair across allergic asthma, CIU and nasal polyps is based on its well-established efficacy and safety profile and supported by a robust clinical development program, including 10 Phase III studies.

In the U.S., Genentech and Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation work together to develop and co-promote Xolair.