Overview of Fasenra
Fasenra is a prescription medication that is used to treat severe eosinophilic asthma, an inflammatory condition that affects the lungs. This medication is a type of biologic drug that works by blocking the action of interleukin-5 (IL-5), a protein that is responsible for promoting the growth and survival of eosinophils. By reducing the number of eosinophils in the airways, Fasenra can help to decrease inflammation and improve respiratory symptoms in people with severe eosinophilic asthma.
How does Fasenra work?
Fasenra works by blocking the action of interleukin-5 (IL-5), a protein that stimulates the production and survival of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that plays a role in inflammatory conditions such as asthma. By reducing the number of eosinophils in the airways, Fasenra can help to decrease inflammation, prevent exacerbations, and improve lung function in people with severe eosinophilic asthma.
What are eosinophils?
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a role in allergic and inflammatory responses. These cells are involved in the inflammatory process that occurs in asthma, as they release chemicals that can damage the airways and cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Eosinophilic asthma is a subtype of asthma that is characterized by high levels of eosinophils in the airways, and is often associated with more severe symptoms and exacerbations.
How is Fasenra administered?
Fasenra is administered as a subcutaneous injection (under the skin) every 4 weeks for the first 3 doses, and then every 8 weeks thereafter. The injection is typically administered in the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen, and can be done by a healthcare provider or self-administered by the patient after proper training. It is important to follow the dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider, as well as any precautions or monitoring requirements.
What are the possible side effects of Fasenra?
- Headache
- Injection site reactions (pain, swelling, redness)
- Back pain
- Fever
- Urinary tract infection
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Joint pain
- Nausea
As with any medication, Fasenra can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Some of the most common side effects include headache, injection site reactions (such as pain, swelling, or redness), back pain, fever, urinary tract infection, anxiety, insomnia, joint pain, and nausea. If you experience any of these side effects or any other symptoms that concern you, be sure to talk to your doctor.
Who can benefit from Fasenra?
Fasenra is primarily used to treat people with severe eosinophilic asthma, a subtype of asthma that is characterized by elevated levels of eosinophils in the airways. This population typically experiences more frequent and severe asthma exacerbations, as well as more persistent symptoms, than those with other types of asthma. Fasenra is typically used when other treatments, such as inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists, have not been effective in controlling asthma symptoms.
What are the benefits of Fasenra?
Fasenra has been shown to be effective in reducing exacerbations, improving lung function, and controlling symptoms in people with severe eosinophilic asthma. In clinical trials, Fasenra significantly reduced the rate of asthma exacerbations and improved lung function compared to placebo. Additionally, Fasenra has been shown to be well-tolerated and safe for long-term use in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma.
How long does it take for Fasenra to work?
The effects of Fasenra can vary depending on the individual, but in general, it may take several weeks to see significant improvement in asthma symptoms. In clinical trials, Fasenra was shown to begin working within 4 weeks in some patients, while others may require longer periods of treatment before experiencing significant improvement.
Precautions and considerations
Who should not take Fasenra?
Fasenra should not be used by people who have a known hypersensitivity (allergic) reaction to Fasenra or any of its ingredients. Additionally, Fasenra should not be used to treat acute asthma symptoms or exacerbations, as it is not a rescue medication.
What are the other considerations when taking Fasenra?
- Fasenra may increase the risk of certain infections, including parasitic infections, and should be used with caution in people with a history of infections or with compromised immune systems.
- Fasenra may cause anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction) in some people, and patients should be monitored for signs of an allergic reaction after receiving an injection.
- Fasenra may interact with other medications, including immunomodulatory drugs, and patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking.
- Fasenra has not been studied in pregnant or breastfeeding women, and the potential risks and benefits should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Fasenra is a prescription medication that is used to treat severe eosinophilic asthma in adults and adolescents over the age of 12. This medication is a type of biologic drug that works by blocking the action of interleukin-5 (IL-5), a protein that promotes the growth and survival of eosinophils. Fasenra has been shown to be effective in reducing exacerbations, improving lung function, and controlling symptoms in people with severe eosinophilic asthma. As with any medication, Fasenra may cause side effects, and patients should be aware of the precautions and considerations associated with its use.
Common questions and answers
-
What is eosinophilic asthma?
Eosinophilic asthma is a subtype of asthma in which there are high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the airways. This can lead to chronic inflammation and airway remodeling, resulting in symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
-
How is eosinophilic asthma diagnosed?
Eosinophilic asthma is typically diagnosed using a combination of symptoms, lung function tests, and blood or sputum tests to measure eosinophil levels.
-
How is Fasenra different from other asthma medications?
Fasenra is a type of biologic drug that specifically targets eosinophils, while most other asthma medications work by reducing inflammation in the airways or improving bronchodilation. Fasenra is typically used in people with severe eosinophilic asthma who have not responded to other treatments.
-
Can Fasenra be used in children?
Fasenra is approved for use in adolescents aged 12 years and older who have severe eosinophilic asthma.
-
How long can Fasenra be used?
Fasenra has been shown to be safe and effective for long-term use in people with severe eosinophilic asthma, and there is no specific time limit on how long it can be used.
References:
- https://www.fasenra.com/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/benralizumab-subcutaneous-route/description/drg-20487945
- https://www.webmd.com/asthma/benralizumab-fasenra#1