A U-turn in Asthma Treatments Now Available

In a double U-turn for medical treatments, the National Institute for Clinical Excellence has approved the use of omalizumab, an asthma drug, for all age groups. The medication has been available since 2007 for treating severe allergic asthma in patients, but NICE decided in November last year that it was no longer worth the money, so it lost its funding through the NHS. NICE has now, once again, decided to recommend omalizumab, also known as Xolair, for persistent asthma cases.

Xolair is currently suitable for a number of patients – it works by blocking immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies from bonding to allergens. This is administered through an injection every two to four weeks, depending on the weight and IgE levels of the patient in question. This is the only treatment that’s proven to be effective in treating cases of asthma where the patient might otherwise be housebound due to the fear of an allergy-related asthma attack. With this course of treatment now available again, those suffering with severe asthma can rest easy.

Asthma is a condition which affects the respiratory system, causing the airways to constrict which makes breathing more difficult. It can prove to be fatal if not treated correctly. You can help reduce the risk of an asthma attack by ensuring that your home remains as dust and mould free as possible, as the spores can lead to an attack, as well as letting plenty of fresh air flow through your home. Exercise, surprisingly, can help your breathing as well, as it opens up the lungs and aids your breathing capability. If you’re struggling with your breathing in any way, or think you may have symptoms of asthma, you should speak to your GP as soon as possible so that they can run tests and advise of the best course of treatment.