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Omalizumab

Abstract

Omalizumab (Xolair; Genentech/Novartis/ Tanox/Sankyo), a monoclonal antibody that binds selectively to the key allergic-reaction mediator immunoglobulin E, was approved by the FDA in June 2003 for the treatment of moderate to severe allergic asthma in patients whose symptoms are inadequately controlled by inhaled corticosteroids. Could omalizumab drive expansion of the asthma market and so reach blockbuster status?

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Figure 1: Mode of action of omalizumab.
Figure 2: Market for drugs to treat asthma in US $ millions.

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Correspondence to Stephen A. Ames.

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Ames, S., Gleeson, C. & Kirkpatrick, P. Omalizumab. Nat Rev Drug Discov 3, 199–200 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrd1334

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