What is Cinqair?
Cinqair, a monoclonal antigen, affects the immune system. Reslizumab works to decrease levels of certain white blood cells that contribute to asthma symptoms. Cinqair is a prescription medicine used in conjunction with other medications to control severe asthma. Cinqair can be used by people who are 18 years old and older and whose asthma cannot be controlled with their current asthma medications.
Warnings
Some people experienced allergic reactions after or during the injection of Cinqair. If you experience nausea, itchiness, swelling of the face, or difficulty breathing, tell your carer. Cinqair is closely monitored to ensure that you don't have an allergic response.
Before you take this drug
Cinqair should not be used if you have an allergy to reslizumab.
Tell your doctor the following if you are not sure if Cinqair will be safe for you:
- You also use steroid asthma medication.
- You have ever been infected with a parasite (such as tapeworms or roundworms).
Cinqair can increase your cancer risk. You should discuss this with your doctor. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant. Reslizumab is not known to harm an unborn child. Uncontrolled asthma in pregnancy can cause complications such as premature birth or low birth weight. Treating asthma can bring multiple advantages for mother and baby alike. Breastfeeding may not be possible while taking this medication; you should contact your healthcare provider if there are concerns regarding any potential risks or adverse events.
Similar/related drugs
Prednisone, Breo Ellipta, Xopenex, Atrovent, Dulera, and Nucala
How to take Cinqair?
Cinqair infusions are given into the vein once every four weeks. This injection will be given by a healthcare provider. The infusion may take up to 50 minutes. After each injection, a few minutes will pass before being closely observed to make sure there are no allergic reactions. If you currently use steroid medications, do not abruptly discontinue them without consulting with a physician first on how best to taper off. Your doctor may order tests to determine your white blood cell count before you begin treatment with Cinqair. Cinqair does not work as a rescue medication for asthma attacks. Consult a medical provider immediately if your breathing issues worsen rapidly or your asthma medications fail to produce results. All asthma medications should be taken as prescribed. Your dose needs may change due to surgery, illness, stress, or a recent asthma attack. Do not adjust your dosage or schedule without first consulting with your physician, particularly if the drug appears not to be working. Inform them if your treatment no longer seems effective.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for asthma:
Every 4 weeks, 3 mg/kg IV administered over 20 to 50 minutes
Comments:
Do not administer IV pushes or boluses.
The infusion should stop immediately if a patient has a severe systemic response, such as anaphylaxis.
Use: As an add-on treatment for patients with severe asthma and an eosinophilic subtype.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you are unable to keep your appointment for the Cinqair injection, call your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses are unlikely because this medicine is administered by a health professional in a medical environment.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Side effects of Cinqair
If you experience any of the following: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat, and/or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical attention. During or soon after the injection, some side effects can occur. You should tell your doctor if you experience nausea, dizziness, or lightheadedness. If you are itchy, short of breath, or have swelling on your face, you need to inform your physician.
Cinqair may cause side effects such as:
- Sore throat
- Muscle pain.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Interaction with other drug
Reslizumab may interact with other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
