Omalizumab

[helenlw7]

Has anyone been prescribed this for atopic asthma?

[TuckBox2]

Hi Helen,

I have been on Omalizumab since March 2013, since I have been on it I have had a lot fewer exacerbations and GP visits, so they are keeping me on the injections. (I'm at the hospital tomorrow for my next course of injections.) I tried to get on the programme 5 years ago, but was told I wasn't in hospital enough. As I was on the max medication for asthma, there was nothing else to try. They have started reducing my medications as I am doing well on this treatment, hopefully reduce some more meds tomorrow.

[helenlw7 in reply to TuckBox2]

Thanks for your prompt reply. I too am on the max me do. The only thing that may stop me getting on the programme is the inpatient thing. They have tried to admit me twice but I refused and was them treated at home with huge dose steroids and antibiotics. I have another question - you talk about going to hospital for your next course of injections. Do you know if this is the norm? I only ask because I have RA and inject myself each week with another biological medicine.

[TuckBox2 in reply to helenlw7]

I have always had this treatment as an out patient, the 1st course I had to sit around for 2 hours to make sure there were no side effects, after that I normally have to wait about 30 mins before going off to work. I'm not sure if they would allow self medication as the injections cost around £300 each, and I have 4 per treatment every 4 weeks. I also have to answer a survey every visit, just asking how my asthma has been, whether I feel it has been under control.

[helenlw7]

Thanks for that. My arthritis medication costs about £250 a week.

[hopetorun]

hi Helen

I am just coming to the end of the trial period. I am on the max medication for asthma too.

I feel like it has taken me back 10 years !! my peak flow has increased by anything between 25 to 50% wow.

I was contemplating giving up work in the next couple of years now I am having second thoughts.

If you are being offered it try it. It might work for you. I have not been an inpatient for a few years ( mainly because I refuse to go) but have had pneumonia and infections that just refuse to go.

Good luck best wishes Irene