Xolair (omalizumab) is approved for moderate-to-severe allergic asthma, chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives), chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, and food allergies. Prior authorization and step therapy requirements are common barriers to access.
FDA-Approved Indications
- Moderate-to-severe persistent allergic asthma (age 6+)
- Chronic idiopathic urticaria (age 12+)
- Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (age 18+)
- IgE-mediated food allergy (age 1+) — newly approved 2024
Common Denial Reasons
- IgE levels outside insurer's range requirements
- Step therapy not completed (inhaled corticosteroids, LABA, etc.)
- Prior authorization documentation insufficient
- Duration of therapy limits
Appeal Strategy
- Document IgE levels and allergen sensitization
- Show failure of standard controller therapies
- Allergist/pulmonologist letter of medical necessity
- ER visits and hospitalizations due to condition
- Quality of life documentation (ACT score, UAS7 for urticaria)
- Cite GINA guidelines for severe asthma