SELECTED ARTICLES FROM THE RECENT LITERATURE 2008 8/31/2008 Omalizumab is effective in poorly controlled allergic asthmatics receiving high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and a long-acting bronchodilator Summary The authors of this investigation conducted a randomized, open label study in patients with moderate to severe allergic asthma. Omalizumab was added to "best standard care." The addition of omalizumab significantly improved efficacy outcomes. The patient population in this study consisted of 164 asthmatics who were receiving high-dose inhaled corticosteroids plus a long-acting bronchodilator. In spite of this, they were poorly controlled. Omalizumab was added, and effectively reduced exacerbation rates by 64%, percent predicted FEV1, and asthma symptoms. The authors concluded that the addition of omalizumab to this patient group one in this "real world study" resulted in an improvement in asthma care. Reference Niven R, et al. Effectiveness of omalizumab in patients with inadequately controlled severe, persistent allergic asthma: an open label study. Respiratory Medicine, available online, 2008.   © Copyright 1997-2008 American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology All rights reserved