A recent study conducted by Genentech Inc suggested a disproportionate increase in heart attacks and strokes in patients treated with Xolair (omalizumab), compared to those who were not given the drug. The FDA had approved the drug in June, 2003 to treat patients aged 12 years or more with moderate-to-severe persistent allergic asthma unresponsive to inhaled steroids and is now conducting a safety review.