DermHelpCentral

Xolair for Urticaria

Xolair has recently been approved for chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU).  The dose is 150 - 300 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks.  It runs ~ $900 for 150 mg and $1800 for 300 mg of Xolair (omalizumab) and is being aggressively marketed.  This is a four page color flier that came with the August Archives of Dermatology.  It is also being advertised on T.V.

Is she frowning because of her urticaria or because her insurance will not approve it?

Urticaria Overview

Jane Brody in the NY Times wrote an excellent introduction to urticaria (hives): both the acute and chronic variants. 

"Hives of one sort or another afflicts about one person in five at some time during their lives. For most, the problem is short-lived or “acute,” lasting less than six weeks. A specific cause, or trigger, can usually be identified.  This is not the case for chronic urticaria."

Brody's article, "Infinite Itch" will answer many of your questions.  It was published on May 8, 2012.