Omalizumab discontinuation in patients with chronic hives

Investigators have uncovered the factors contributing to the discontinuation of omalizumab in patients with chronic urticaria, also known as hives.

Chronic urticaria is an often debilitating condition characterized by itchy welts on the skin that last over six weeks and are triggered by food, medication or stress.

In a study, published in JAMA Dermatology, the investigators examined the data of 2,325 patients with the condition and found that most of the patients who discontinued treatment cited well-controlled disease—followed by medication ineffectiveness and negative side effects.

The investigators noted that factors such as a rapid response to omalizumab, chronic urticaria lasting over two years, simultaneous treatment with an immunosuppressant and preexisting autoimmune diseases all contributed to treatment discontinuation.

The findings indicated a need to identify new strategies to monitor patients with chronic urticaria, especially those who responded favorably to the medication.

Read more: JAMA Dermatology

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