Novartis receives EU approval for Xolair

Novartis has been granted approval by the European Commission for its therapy Xolair (omalizumab) as an add-on therapy for severe persistent allergic asthma in youngsters between the ages of six and 11.

The drug is already approved for use in people aged 12 years and over and it is the only approved drug that targets an underlying mechanism of the condition.

The authorisation was based on the results of a study that showed the drug to reduce asthma attacks by 34 per cent after 24 weeks of treatment.

Commenting on the authorisation, Joe Jimenez, chief executive officer of the Novartis pharmaceuticals division, said that asthma can have a “life-changing” impact on a young person’s life.

“This European Commission approval of Xolair offers young asthma patients new hope against this disease, in line with the Novartis commitment to develop innovative respiratory health solutions,” he added.

In recent days, the company unveiled its Lab of the Future concept to students at the Biotechnology Leadership Camp.