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SELECTED ARTICLES FROM THE RECENT LITERATURE 2006
11/8/06
Omalizumab effects on quality of life in severe asthma
Summary
Background – Previous studies have indicated treatment with omalizumab (Omal), a monoclonal anti-IgE antibody, can reduce the frequency of acute asthma exacerbations in severe asthma. Does Omal therapy improve the quality of life (Q of L) in such patients?
Findings – Chipps et al of the Capital Allergy and Resp Dis Center in Sacramento, CA carried out a pooled analysis of the Q of L findings in 6 controlled trials of added Omal therapy in severe asthma. They found a significantly greater improvement in the asthma Q of L from baseline values in those asthmatics receiving added Omal as compared to added placebo therapy (1.01 vs 0.61; p<0.001). In addition a higher percentage of the added Omal- treated asthmatics reported a clinically significant improvement in the Q of L score when compared to those receiving added placebo (66% vs 52%).
Reference
Curr Med Res Opin 2006;22:2201-8
Editor's Comments
My impression from this study is that added Omal therapy was associated with a significant, though relatively modest, improvement in the Q of L when compared to added placebo treatment. The impressive p<0.001 in the comparison may be due in part to the large patient study group size. However, the findings are still impressive considering that other therapies such as corticosteroids were used as needed.
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