MICHAEL J PALUMBO M.D.
Prescription History 1083662720
Allergy & Immunology - Allergy in Pittsburgh, PA

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This product is used to control and prevent symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma or ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema). It contains 2 medications: fluticasone and salmeterol. Fluticasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing the irritation and swelling of the airways. Salmeterol belongs to the class of drugs known as long-acting beta agonists. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school. When used alone, long-acting beta agonists (such as salmeterol) may rarely increase the risk of serious (sometimes fatal) asthma-related breathing problems. However, combination inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta agonists, such as this product, do not increase the risk of serious asthma-related breathing problems. For asthma treatment, this product should be used when breathing problems are not well controlled with one asthma-control medication (such as inhaled corticosteroid) or if your symptoms need combination treatment. Before using this medication, it is important to learn how to use it properly. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as prescribed.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A short-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist that is primarily used as a bronchodilator agent to treat ASTHMA. Albuterol is prepared as a racemic mixture of R(-) and S(+) stereoisomers. The stereospecific preparation of R(-) isomer of albuterol is referred to as levalbuterol.

Albuterol (also known as salbutamol) is used to treat wheezing and shortness of breath caused by breathing problems such as asthma. It is a quick-relief medication. Albuterol belongs to a class of drugs known as bronchodilators. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Fluticasone is used to control and prevent symptoms (such as wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma. Controlling symptoms of asthma helps you maintain your normal activities and decreases time lost from work or school. Fluticasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing swelling (inflammation) of the airways in the lungs to make breathing easier. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as prescribed.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This medication is used to relieve nasal symptoms such as runny/itching/stuffy nose, sneezing, and post-nasal drip caused by allergies or other conditions. Azelastine belongs to a class of drugs known as antihistamines. It works by blocking certain natural substances called histamines that are responsible for nasal symptoms.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This medication is used to prevent and decrease symptoms (wheezing and trouble breathing) caused by asthma and ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema). This inhaler contains 2 medications: fluticasone and vilanterol. Fluticasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing the swelling of the airways in the lungs to make breathing easier. Vilanterol belongs to a class of drugs known as long-acting beta agonists. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. When used alone, long-acting beta agonists (like vilanterol) may rarely increase the risk of serious (sometimes fatal) asthma-related breathing problems. However, combination inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta agonists, such as this product, do not increase the risk of serious asthma-related breathing problems. For asthma treatment, this product should be used when breathing problems are not well controlled with one asthma-control medication (such as inhaled corticosteroid) or if your symptoms need combination treatment. Before using this medication, it is important to learn how to use it properly. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as prescribed.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This product is used to control and prevent symptoms (such as wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema). Controlling symptoms of breathing problems helps you maintain your normal activities and decreases time lost from work or school. This inhaler contains 3 medications: budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol. Budesonide works by reducing the irritation and swelling of the airways. Budesonide belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. Glycopyrrolate and formoterol work by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Glycopyrrolate belongs to a class of drugs known as anticholinergics. Formoterol belongs to the class of drugs known as long-acting beta agonists (LABAs). Both drugs are also known as bronchodilators. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden breathing problems. If sudden shortness of breath occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler as prescribed. This medication is not approved to treat asthma.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A chromone complex that acts by inhibiting the release of chemical mediators from sensitized MAST CELLS. It is used in the prophylactic treatment of both allergic and exercise-induced asthma, but does not affect an established asthmatic attack.

This medication is used to treat certain allergic eye conditions (vernal keratoconjunctivitis, vernal conjunctivitis, vernal keratitis). It prevents itching of the eyes that can occur with these conditions. Cromolyn is known as a mast cell stabilizer. It works by blocking certain natural substances (histamine, SRS-A) that cause allergic symptoms.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Cyclosporine is used to prevent organ rejection in people who have received a liver, kidney, or heart transplant. It is usually taken along with other medications to allow your new organ to function normally. Cyclosporine is also used to treat severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis and plaque psoriasis. In these conditions, the body's defense system (immune system) attacks healthy tissues. Cyclosporine belongs to a class of drugs known as immunosuppressants. It works by weakening the immune system to help your body accept the new organ as if it were your own (in the case of an organ transplant) and to prevent further damage to your joints (in the case of rheumatoid arthritis) or skin (in the case of psoriasis).

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Desloratadine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, sneezing, hives, and itching. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

The active sympathomimetic hormone from the ADRENAL MEDULLA. It stimulates both the alpha- and beta- adrenergic systems, causes systemic VASOCONSTRICTION and gastrointestinal relaxation, stimulates the HEART, and dilates BRONCHI and cerebral vessels. It is used in ASTHMA and CARDIAC FAILURE and to delay absorption of local ANESTHETICS.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A competitive histamine H2-receptor antagonist. Its main pharmacodynamic effect is the inhibition of gastric secretion.

Famotidine is used to treat ulcers of the stomach and intestines and to prevent intestinal ulcers from coming back after they have healed. This medication is also used to treat certain stomach and throat (esophagus) problems (such as erosive esophagitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease-GERD, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome). It works by decreasing the amount of acid your stomach makes. It relieves symptoms such as cough that doesn't go away, stomach pain, heartburn, and difficulty swallowing. Famotidine belongs to a class of drugs known as H2 blockers. This medication is also available without a prescription. It is used to prevent and treat heartburn and other symptoms caused by too much acid in the stomach (acid indigestion). If you are taking this medication for self-treatment, it is important to read the manufacturer's package instructions carefully so you know when to consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A STEROID with GLUCOCORTICOID RECEPTOR activity that is used to manage the symptoms of ASTHMA; ALLERGIC RHINITIS, and ATOPIC DERMATITIS.

Fluticasone is used to control and prevent symptoms (such as wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma. Controlling symptoms of asthma helps you maintain your normal activities and decreases time lost from work or school. Fluticasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing swelling (inflammation) of the airways in the lungs to make breathing easier. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as prescribed.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A STEROID with GLUCOCORTICOID RECEPTOR activity that is used to manage the symptoms of ASTHMA; ALLERGIC RHINITIS, and ATOPIC DERMATITIS.

Fluticasone is used to control and prevent symptoms (such as wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma. Controlling symptoms of asthma helps you maintain your normal activities and decreases time lost from work or school. Fluticasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing swelling (inflammation) of the airways in the lungs to make breathing easier. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as prescribed.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Hydroxyzine is used to treat itching caused by allergies. It is an antihistamine and works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction. Hydroxyzine may also be used short-term to treat anxiety or to help you feel sleepy/relaxed before and after surgery.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Umeclidinium is used to control and prevent symptoms (such as wheezing, shortness of breath) caused by ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, which includes bronchitis and emphysema). It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Umeclidinium belongs to a class of drugs known as anticholinergics. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden shortness of breath. If wheezing or sudden shortness of breath occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as prescribed.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A muscarinic antagonist structurally related to ATROPINE but often considered safer and more effective for inhalation use. It is used for various bronchial disorders, in rhinitis, and as an antiarrhythmic.

Ipratropium is used to control and prevent symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD which includes bronchitis and emphysema). It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school. For preventing symptoms of lung disease, this medication must be used regularly to be effective. Use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) for wheezing or sudden shortness of breath unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Ipratropium does not work as fast as your quick-relief inhaler, but may sometimes be used to relieve symptoms of wheezing or sudden shortness of breath if so prescribed by your doctor.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Levocetirizine is an antihistamine used to relieve allergy symptoms such as watery eyes, runny nose, itching eyes/nose, and sneezing. It is also used to relieve itching and hives. It works by blocking a certain natural substance (histamine) that your body makes during an allergic reaction. Levocetirizine does not prevent hives or prevent/treat a serious allergic reaction (such as anaphylaxis). If your doctor has prescribed epinephrine to treat allergic reactions, always carry your epinephrine injector with you. Do not use levocetirizine in place of your epinephrine.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

The major hormone derived from the thyroid gland. Thyroxine is synthesized via the iodination of tyrosines (MONOIODOTYROSINE) and the coupling of iodotyrosines (DIIODOTYROSINE) in the THYROGLOBULIN. Thyroxine is released from thyroglobulin by proteolysis and secreted into the blood. Thyroxine is peripherally deiodinated to form TRIIODOTHYRONINE which exerts a broad spectrum of stimulatory effects on cell metabolism.

Levothyroxine is used to treat an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It replaces or provides more thyroid hormone, which is normally produced by the thyroid gland. Low thyroid hormone levels can occur naturally or when the thyroid gland is injured by radiation/medications or removed by surgery. Having enough thyroid hormone is important for maintaining normal mental and physical activity. In children, having enough thyroid hormone is important for normal mental and physical development. This medication is also used to treat other types of thyroid disorders (such as thyroid cancer). This medication should not be used to treat infertility unless it is caused by low thyroid hormone levels.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A pregnadienediol derivative ANTI-ALLERGIC AGENT and ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AGENT that is used in the management of ASTHMA and ALLERGIC RHINITIS. It is also used as a topical treatment for skin disorders.

Mometasone is used to control and prevent symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as prescribed. Mometasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing the irritation and swelling of the airways. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

Montelukast is used to control and prevent symptoms caused by asthma (such as wheezing and shortness of breath). It is also used before exercise to prevent breathing problems during exercise (bronchospasm). This medication can help decrease the number of times you need to use your quick relief inhaler. Montelukast is also used to relieve symptoms of hay fever and allergic rhinitis (such as sneezing, stuffy/runny/itchy nose). Since there are other allergy medications that may be safer (see also Warning section), this medication should be used for this condition only when you cannot take other allergy medications or they do not work well. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks or breathing problems. If an asthma attack or sudden shortness of breath occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler as prescribed. This drug works by blocking certain natural substances (leukotrienes) that may cause or worsen asthma and allergies. It helps make breathing easier by reducing swelling (inflammation) in the airways.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

2-pyridinylmethylsulfinylbenzimidazole proton pump inhibitor that is used in the treatment of GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX and PEPTIC ULCER.

Pantoprazole is used to treat certain stomach and esophagus problems (such as acid reflux). It works by decreasing the amount of acid your stomach makes. This medication relieves symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and cough. It helps heal acid damage to the stomach and esophagus, helps prevent ulcers, and may help prevent cancer of the esophagus. Pantoprazole belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A synthetic anti-inflammatory glucocorticoid derived from CORTISONE. It is biologically inert and converted to PREDNISOLONE in the liver.

Prednisone is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, blood disorders, breathing problems, severe allergies, skin diseases, cancer, eye problems, and immune system disorders. Prednisone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It decreases your immune system's response to various diseases to reduce symptoms such as swelling and allergic-type reactions.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

An anti-inflammatory, synthetic glucocorticoid. It is used topically as an anti-inflammatory agent and in aerosol form for the treatment of ASTHMA.

Beclomethasone is used to prevent and treat seasonal and year-round allergy symptoms (such as stuffy/runny nose, itchy eyes/nose/throat, sneezing). It may be used to treat symptoms (such as stuffy/runny nose) caused by other triggers (such as cigarette smoke, perfumes). It is also used to prevent the return of growths in the nose (nasal polyps) after removal by surgery. Beclomethasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing swelling (inflammation) in the nasal passages.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A pharmaceutical preparation of budesonide and formoterol fumarate that is used as an ANTI-ASTHMATIC AGENT and for the treatment of CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE.

This product is used to control and prevent symptoms (wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma or ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema). It contains 2 medications: budesonide and formoterol. Budesonide belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing the irritation and swelling of the airways. Formoterol belongs to the class of drugs known as long-acting beta agonists. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school. When used alone, long-acting beta agonists (such as formoterol) may rarely increase the risk of serious (sometimes fatal) asthma-related breathing problems. However, combination inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta agonists, such as this product, do not increase the risk of serious asthma-related breathing problems. Before using this medication, it is important to learn how to use it properly. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in some countries) as prescribed. See also How to Use section.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

This product is used to control and prevent symptoms (such as wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma and ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema). Controlling symptoms of breathing problems helps you stay active. This inhaler contains 3 medications: fluticasone, umeclidinium, and vilanterol. Fluticasone belongs to a class of drugs known as corticosteroids. It works by reducing swelling of the airways in the lungs to make breathing easier. Umeclidinium belongs to a class of drugs known as anticholinergics and vilanterol is a LABA medication. Both drugs work by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Both drugs are also known as bronchodilators. When used alone, long-acting beta agonists (such as vilanterol) may rarely increase the risk of serious (sometimes fatal) asthma-related breathing problems. However, combination products containing both an inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta agonist, such as this product, do not increase the risk of serious asthma-related breathing problems. For asthma treatment, this product should be used when breathing problems are not well controlled with two asthma-control medications (such as inhaled corticosteroid and long-acting beta agonist) or if your symptoms need combination treatment. This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden shortness of breath. If sudden breathing problems occur, use your quick-relief inhaler as prescribed.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

A short-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist that is primarily used as a bronchodilator agent to treat ASTHMA. Albuterol is prepared as a racemic mixture of R(-) and S(+) stereoisomers. The stereospecific preparation of R(-) isomer of albuterol is referred to as levalbuterol.

Albuterol (also known as salbutamol) is used to treat wheezing and shortness of breath caused by breathing problems such as asthma. It is a quick-relief medication. Albuterol belongs to a class of drugs known as bronchodilators. It works by relaxing the muscles around the airways so that they open up and you can breathe more easily. Controlling symptoms of breathing problems can decrease time lost from work or school.

Note on Expenses: These indicators represent gross infrastructure resource tracking paid directly to supply pharmacy networks by Medicare Part D configurations. These calculations do not track individual patient insurance tier copays or out-of-pocket shelf prices at retail checkout lanes.

An anti-IgE, recombinant, humanized monoclonal antibody which specifically binds to the C epsilon3 domain of IMMUNOGLOBULIN E, the site of high-affinity IgE receptor binding. It inhibits the binding of IgE to MAST CELLS and BASOPHILS to reduce the severity of the allergic response and is used in the management of persistent allergic ASTHMA.

Omalizumab is used to control and prevent symptoms (such as wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by asthma that is due to year-round allergens. Controlling symptoms of asthma helps you maintain your normal activities and cuts down on time lost from work or school. Omalizumab may also be used to treat nasal polyps or to treat hives from an unknown cause (chronic idiopathic urticaria-CIU). This medication must be used regularly to be effective. It does not work right away and should not be used to relieve sudden asthma attacks. If an asthma attack occurs, use your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, salbutamol) as prescribed.