Do you have severe asthma? Perhaps the inhalers you use are not as effective as you think. Do you feel that your breathing is getting worse day by day? For those in such a situation, doctors sometimes consider other treatment options. Well, today we are talking about a special medicine that is prescribed for asthma conditions that are difficult to control properly with other asthma medications.
What is Benralizumab?
Simply put, benralizumab is an injection given to prevent asthma symptoms. It is commonly marketed under the name Fasenra .
But this is not a medicine for everyone. Your doctor will consider this treatment only if your asthma is not well controlled with other medicines. It belongs to a special class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies .
"Monoclonal antibody" may sound a bit complicated, but it's actually quite simple. Think of it like our bodies have antibodies that fight off disease. Similarly, this is a protein that's specially made in a lab. What's special about it is that it goes directly to a specific type of cell in our body (eosinophils) that causes inflammation in our airways and reduces their activity. This reduces the swelling in your airways, making it easier to breathe.
But this is something to keep in mind: This injection should never be used as a treatment for an acute asthma attack . In such an emergency, you should only use the blue reliever inhaler that your doctor has given you.
What should I tell the doctor before taking this medicine?
Before you start this treatment, you must inform your doctor of the following information.
- Parasitic infections: Tell us if you have or have recently had a parasitic/helminth infection.
- Allergies: If you have any allergies to this benralizumab medication or any other medication, food, or dye, you must tell us.
- Pregnancy: If you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, it is essential to inform your doctor before starting this medication.
How do you use this medicine?
This medication is given as a subcutaneous injection. It is usually given every 4 weeks for the first 3 months and then every 8 weeks thereafter.
Initially, your doctor or nurse will show you how to give this. You may be taught how to give yourself the injection at home. If so, you should follow those instructions exactly.
- Used needles: After you have given an injection, never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. There is a special container for them (sharps container). If you don't have one, ask your doctor about how to get one.
- If you miss a dose: It is very important to take this medicine on time. If you miss your injection on the scheduled day, call your doctor immediately for advice. If you are taking your medicine at home, take the dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Never take two doses at once.
Important: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never share it with anyone else.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
While using this medicine, see your doctor regularly to check your condition. Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.
Another important thing is that you should not stop taking any other asthma medication you are already taking (e.g. inhaler) until your doctor tells you to. This injection is an additional treatment, not a replacement for other medications.
What are the possible side effects of this medicine?
As with any medication, there are some side effects that can occur. Some of them can be serious and require immediate attention.
| Type of side effect | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Things to report to your doctor or ETU (Emergency Treatment Unit) immediately | |
| Severe allergic reactions (Allergic reactions / Angioedema) | Skin rash , itching, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, hands or feet, difficulty swallowing or breathing. |
| Things to tell your doctor if they are usually not serious, but persist | |
| Headache | Common headache. |
| Sore throat | Sore throat or discomfort. |
This list only includes some of the most common side effects. If you experience anything different, talk to your doctor about it.
How to store the medicine?
It is very important to store this medicine properly.
- Keep away from children and pets.
- It's best to store it in the refrigerator. Keep it on an inside shelf, not in the door. Protect it from light and keep it in its original packaging.
- If you can't refrigerate it, you can store it at room temperature (between 20-25 degrees Celsius) for up to 14 days. However, if you do, you should throw it away after 14 days or when the expiration date comes (whichever comes first).
- Never use expired medications . Ask your doctor how to properly dispose of them.
Take-Home Message
- Benralizumab is a special injection given for severe asthma that is difficult to control with regular medications.
- This is absolutely not for use during an asthma attack. You should use your reliever inhaler for that.
- Before starting the medication, you should tell your doctor about any other illnesses you have, allergies, and whether you are pregnant.
- Do not stop taking your other asthma medication until your doctor tells you to.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, or difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately.
- If you have any further questions about this medication, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor.
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