Xolair for the Reduction of Food Allergies

Rose Ftiha, Pharm.D. Candidate 2025

On February 16, the FDA approved Xolair (omalizumab) injection for immunoglobulin E-mediated food allergy. This medication aims to reduce allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, caused by accidental exposure to multiple types of foods and ingredients. While patients must still avoid foods they are allergic to and carry epinephrine on them at all times, Xolair is a breakthrough therapy since it is the first medication approved to reduce the risk of allergic reactions to multiple types of food allergies. It works by binding to immunoglobulin E (IgE) and stops it from binding to its receptor, therefore blocking allergic reactions triggered by this antibody. The approval of Xolair is a significant because it's the first medicine ever approved for treating multiple different food allergies instead of one specific allergy. Food allergies can be tough to live with, especially for children. Patients can be wary of what they eat for fear of exposure and hospitalization. Xolair is a game-changer as it allows people to stop being in fear of their food allergies. This is especially true for children who might not always be aware of which foods or ingredients may cause an allergic reaction. It gives patients and their families ease of mind when handling food products and increased quality of life. Hopefully, we will see more development in this field in the upcoming years.