Novarts’ Xolair (omalizumab) has been recommended for routine use by the National Health Service as an add-on treatment for patients who have severe chronic spontaneous episodes of hives (urticaria).

In draft guidelines, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence is supporting the monthly injection for adults and young people over the age of 12 with persistent hives when antihistamines do not work, after the firm submitted new evidence to back its use.

For more details, go to: http://www.pharmatimes.com/Article/15-03-11/Novartis_Xolair_backed_for_NHS_treatment_of_hives.aspx