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news.The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has now approved the use of Omalizumab, commercially known as Xolair, for the treatment of chronic hives (idiopathic urticaria).
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Used for years to treat allergic asthma, the drug has been tested for the treatment of chronic hives with overwhelmingly positive results. For those that suffer from chronic hives, this is a game changer, according to Chicago allergist, Dr Brian Rotskoff.
Dr Rotskoff noted that hives is a common condition that can be triggered by a variety of irritants.
"For those that experience the occasional hives breakout, the rash is usually responsive and managed by a round of anti-histamines. Chronic hives, however, can last for months or even years with no determinant cause or relief, which can be extremely frustrating for the patient," Dr Rotskoff added.
Clinical trials of the drug included patients over the age of 12. Of those tested, 65-70% responded positively to treatment and 40-45% saw their condition nearly disappear.
Dr Rotskoff said that this is incredible news for patients with chronic hives who have suffered real discomfort over long periods of time, with little options for relief — up until now.
Before this trial, only about half of patients that suffer with chronic hives responded to antihistamines, leaving the other half miserable. Now, through the use of injectable Omalizumab, treatment options and real results are in sight for chronic hives sufferers.