What is Reslizumab?
Reslizumab, in combination with other medications, is used to control severe asthma among adults.Reslizumab reduces the levels of certain types of white blood cells that can contribute to asthma symptoms.Reslizumab can also be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.
Side effects of Reslizumab
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat.Some side effects can occur immediately after or during the injection. You should tell your doctor if you experience nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, itching, shortness of breath, or swelling on your face.
Some of the common side effects associated with reslizumab include:
- Sore throat
- Muscle pain.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. To report adverse effects, you can contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Some patients have experienced allergic reactions to reslizumab either during or soon after the injection. If you experience nausea, lightheadedness, itching, swelling of your face, or difficulty breathing, tell your caregiver.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to reslizumab, it is not recommended that you receive treatment with this drug.Tell your doctor about any parasitic infections you may have had (such as tapeworms or roundworms).The use of reslizumab can increase your chances of developing cancer. You should ask your doctor if this is a risk.Inform your doctor if you are pregnant. Reslizumab is not known to harm unborn babies. Uncontrolled asthma in pregnancy can cause complications such as premature birth or low birth weight. Treatment of asthma can be beneficial to both mother and baby.Reslizumab may make it unsafe to breastfeed. You should consult your doctor if you are concerned about any risks.
How to take Reslizumab?
Your doctor may order tests to determine your white blood cell count before you begin treatment.Reslizumab infusions are given into a 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, you will be closely monitored for a few minutes to ensure that there is no allergic reaction.You should not suddenly stop taking steroid medications if you are also using them. You should follow your doctor's advice on how to taper your dose.Reslizumab does not work as a rescue medication for asthma attacks. Consult a doctor if your breathing issues worsen quickly or you feel your asthma medications do not work.All asthma medications should be taken as prescribed. Your dose needs may change due to surgery, illness, stress, or a recent asthma attack. You should not alter your dosage or schedule without consulting your doctor. Inform your doctor if your medicine seems to be no longer working.
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 attend your scheduled reslizumab treatment, call your doctor.
What happens if I overdose?
Overdoses are unlikely because reslizumab will be administered by a medical professional.
What should be avoided?
Follow your doctor's instructions if he or she prescribes restrictions on food, drink, and activity.
Interaction with other drug
Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal products, may also affect reslizumab. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are taking and those that you stop or start using.
