Xolair, manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Canada, is used for the treatment of asthma in people 12 years old and older who have moderate to severe persistent asthma, who react to airborne allergens and whose symptoms are not adequately controlled with inhaled corticosteroids.

After concerns raised by the ongoing U.S. study regarding the long-term safety profile of Xolair, Health Canada is now reviewing safety of the drug. The findings of the study indicated an increase in cardiovascular problems among patients treated with Xolair as compared to patients not treated with the drug.

Health Canada said the review follows the interim findings of an ongoing U.S. study that suggests an increase in such problems by patients treated with Xolair (omalizumab), including heart attacks, abnormal heart rhythms, heart failure, fainting, mini-strokes and blood clots.