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Fasenra

Generic name: benralizumab [BEN-ra-LIZ-ue-mab]
Drug class: interleukin inhibitors

What is Fasenra?

Fasenra is a monoclonal antigen that influences the immune system of the human body. Benralizumab reduces the levels of eosinophils, a type of white cell that may be responsible for asthma symptoms. The Fasenra injection is used in conjunction with other asthma medications to control serious asthma among adults and children aged at least 12 years. Fasenra helps asthmatics who are not controlled by other medicines.

Warnings

Tell your doctor before you start taking Fasenra about any medical conditions you have or allergies. Also, let him know if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.

Before you take this drug

Fasenra should not be used if benralizumab is an allergy.

If you've ever:

  • A parasite (such as tapeworms or roundworms)

  • If you are using an inhaled or oral steroid,

Untreated asthma during gestation could prove harmful for both mother and fetus, so be sure to inform your healthcare provider of any pregnancy plans or plans to become pregnant. Your doctor should inform you if there are any potential risks that would prevent breastfeeding during treatment with this drug. Fasenra should only be administered to children aged 12 or above.

How to take Fasenra?

Your doctor will likely perform tests on your eosinophil count before you begin treatment. Fasenra can be injected subcutaneously (under the skin) once every four weeks during the initial three doses and every eight weeks thereafter. Fasenra is available in two forms: a prefilled single-dose syringe and a one-dose autoinjector. The healthcare provider injects Fasenra with the prefilled single-dose syringe. Your doctor should give you or another caregiver permission to administer Fasenra; thus training should take place regarding how to use its autoinjector pen. Do not neglect to follow your physician's directions. Do not stop taking steroid medications unless you are told to by your doctor. Do not use Fasenra to treat asthma. Only inhalation medicines with fast action should be used.If the inhalation medicine you've taken doesn't seem to be working, seek medical assistance immediately.

Your doctor may want to conduct frequent tests in order to determine the length of treatment you will receive with Fasenra. Asthma can be treated with a mixture of medications. Read and carefully follow all instructions provided to you. Do not make changes or adjustments without speaking with your physician first as your dose needs may change due to surgery, illness, stress or an asthma attack.Inform your doctor immediately if you notice that your medicine is not working.

Details on dosage

Adult dose for asthma:

Once every eight weeks, 30 mg of subcutaneously administered tetracycline is given for the initial three doses.

Comments:

This drug can be administered by the caregiver only to the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen.

Add-on maintenance treatment for patients with severe asthma and an eosinophilic subtype

The usual pediatric dose for asthma is:

Twelve years old and over:

Once every eight weeks, 30 mg of subcutaneous dosing is recommended for the initial three doses.

Comments:

This drug can be administered by the caregiver only to the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen.

Add-on maintenance treatment for patients aged 12 and over with severe asthma with a phenotype of eosinophilic

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you missed your Fasenra appointment, call your doctor to get instructions.

What happens if I overdose?

Overdoses are unlikely because this medication is administered by healthcare professionals in a medical environment.

What should be avoided?

If your doctor prescribes restrictions regarding food, beverages or activities for you to partake in, be sure to heed their advice.

Side effects of Fasenra

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: itching or rash, difficulty breathing, lightheadedness, swelling in your lips, face, throat, tongue, and/or mouth,

If you experience:

  • Asthma symptoms can worsen or develop new ones.

Fasenra may cause side effects such as:

  • Sore throat

  • Headache.

There may be other side effects. Need advice regarding side effects? Speak with your physician. Report side effects by calling the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Interaction with other drug

Benralizumab may also interact with other drugs, such as prescription or over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal products. Informing your physician of any medications you are currently taking as well as those you stop or start taking is extremely important for their overall well-being and safety.

DRUG STATUS

Availability

Prescription only

Pregnancy & Lactation

CSA Schedule*
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