What is a significant adverse reaction associated with omalizumab?

Omalizumab, a monoclonal antibody that targets IgE, is primarily used to treat moderate to severe allergic asthma and chronic urticaria. One significant adverse reaction associated with its use is anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur after the first dose or at any time during treatment. The risk of anaphylaxis is one of the reasons that patients receiving omalizumab must be monitored in a healthcare setting after administration, especially for the first dose.

Other potential adverse reactions like gastrointestinal upset or hypertension, while they may occur, are not as commonly highlighted or severe as anaphylaxis. Weight gain is not a known adverse reaction associated with omalizumab either. Understanding that serious allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, can occur with the administration of this therapy is crucial for patient safety and management during treatment.