If you suffer from severe allergic asthma or chronic idiopathic urticaria, Xolair injection may be a recommended treatment option. Xolair is a monoclonal antibody that works by targeting and blocking Immunoglobulin E (IgE) to reduce the severity and frequency of allergic reactions. Before undergoing an Xolair injection, it is essential to understand what to expect during the procedure to feel more comfortable and prepared.
At Kartz Allergy and Asthma, we offer Xolair injection as a treatment option for our patients. Our experienced healthcare professionals are committed to providing a safe and comfortable experience for our patients.
What to Expect During the Procedure:
Pre-Procedure Assessment
Before the Xolair injection, our healthcare professionals will conduct a thorough assessment of your medical history. A physical exam will help to ensure that Xolair is a safe and appropriate treatment option for you. This assessment will include a review of your current medications, allergies, and any medical conditions you may have. The healthcare professional will also check your vital signs, such as your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature, to ensure that you are stable before receiving the injection.
During the assessment, it is crucial to inform our healthcare professionals if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. The safety of Xolair for these groups has not yet been established by the FDA. Additionally, if you have a history of anaphylaxis or severe allergic reactions, you may need to take additional precautions before receiving Xolair.
Injection Site Preparation
Our healthcare professionals will clean and disinfect the injection site to minimize the risk of infection. The injection is typically given in the upper arm or thigh. If you have any preferences or concerns about the injection site, please discuss them with our healthcare professional.
It is important to note that Xolair should not be injected into areas with active infection or inflammation. It may increase the risk of complications. If you have any skin conditions or infections, please inform our healthcare professionals before receiving the injection.
Xolair Injection
Our healthcare professionals will administer the Xolair injection using a sterile needle and syringe. The injection takes only a few minutes to complete. Xolair is typically injected once or twice a month, depending on your treatment plan. Also, the dosage of Xolair may vary depending on your weight and other medical conditions.
It is crucial to follow your treatment plan as prescribed by your healthcare professional to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from Xolair. Missing doses or changing the dosage without consulting your healthcare professional may affect the effectiveness of the treatment.
Post-Injection Observation
Following the injection, you will be observed by our healthcare professionals for a short period to ensure that there are no immediate adverse reactions. In rare cases, patients may experience anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition and can lead to death as well. Immediate medical attention is required in such cases.
It is essential to inform our healthcare professionals immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms after the injection. These symptoms may include redness or swelling at the injection site, fever, chills, or other flu-like symptoms. While most patients tolerate Xolair well, it is essential to monitor for any potential adverse reactions.
Follow-Up Care
After the Xolair injection, our healthcare professionals will provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for the injection site and any potential side effects to watch out for. We will also schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
Some common side effects of Xolair may include pain, swelling, or redness. These side effects typically resolve within a few days and are generally mild to moderate in severity. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, please contact our healthcare professionals immediately.
How Safe Is Xolair?
Xolair has been approved by FDA for moderate-to-severe asthma and is generally considered safe when administered under the supervision of a healthcare professional. However, as with any medication, there may be some risks and potential side effects associated with its use.
As mentioned earlier, some patients may experience anaphylaxis. It is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and a drop in blood pressure. For this reason, it is important to inform your healthcare professional immediately if you experience any unusual symptoms after the Xolair injection.
Additionally, Xolair has been associated with an increased risk of cancer in some studies. However, the evidence is not yet conclusive. Other potential side effects of Xolair may include pain, swelling, headaches, and fatigue.
It is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits of Xolair with your healthcare professional before starting treatment. Your healthcare professional will assess your individual medical history and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
At Kartz Allergy and Asthma, we are committed to providing safe and effective treatment options for our patients. Our healthcare professionals will monitor you closely during the Xolair injection and provide you with detailed instructions on how to care for the injection site and any potential side effects. If you have any questions or concerns about the safety of Xolair or any other treatment options, please do not hesitate to contact us at 813-670-7062.