Registered Nurse (RN) Respiratory Practice Exam

The medication that works by blocking the immunoglobulin IgE for patients with poorly controlled asthma is Omalizumab. Omalizumab is a monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to IgE, which is a key player in the allergic response and asthma pathology. By inhibiting IgE's action, Omalizumab reduces the underlying inflammation and hypersensitivity associated with asthma, leading to improved control of asthma symptoms in individuals who have demonstrated difficulty with conventional treatments.

In contrast, Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist that works by blocking leukotrienes, which also play a role in inflammation and bronchoconstriction, but it does not directly target IgE. Cromolyn is a mast cell stabilizer that prevents the release of mediators from mast cells and is primarily used as a preventive treatment rather than for poorly controlled asthma. Salmeterol, a long-acting beta-agonist, works by relaxing bronchial smooth muscle but does not influence IgE levels or action either.

Therefore, Omalizumab stands out as the targeted treatment for controlling asthma related to allergic triggers by addressing the root cause at the level of IgE.