Do you also have asthma? Sometimes it is difficult to completely control asthma with the medications we usually use, such as inhalers. So, in this article, we are going to talk about a special treatment that doctors recommend in such cases, which is a little different. The name of this medicine is Mepolizumab. It usually comes under the brand name Nucala.
What kind of medicine is Mepolizumab?
Okay, to put it simply, this is a shot that is given to prevent asthma symptoms. Doctors usually recommend it when other medications have not worked. It is also used for some other immune system conditions.
Now let's see how this works. We have a type of white blood cell called 'Eosinophils' in our blood. An increase in the number of these eosinophils can make some people's asthma worse. The Mepolizumab vaccine works by reducing the number of eosinophils and controlling the inflammation in the airways. This belongs to a class of drugs called 'Monoclonal Antibody' . This means that it is designed to act only on a very specific target in our body.
But one thing you need to remember is that this is not a medicine to use when you suddenly have asthma. That is, it is not a shot to take when you have difficulty breathing. For such an emergency, you should use the reliever inhaler that your doctor has given you.
Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before you start treatment with Mepolizumab, there are a few things you should definitely tell your doctor. This will help your doctor decide whether this medication is right for you or not.
| Information you need to provide | Why is that important? |
|---|---|
| If you have a parasitic/helminth infection . | Because this medicine changes the immune system, it may affect the ability to fight off worm infections. |
| If you have allergies to Mepolizumab or any other medicine or food. | This information is essential to prevent severe allergies. |
| If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. | You should talk to your doctor about the safety of this medication during pregnancy and make a decision. |
| If you are a breastfeeding mother. | You should discuss with your doctor whether the medication passes to the baby through breast milk and whether it has any effect. |
How is this vaccine used?
This vaccine is given as a subcutaneous injection. It is usually given to you by a doctor or nurse in a hospital or clinic.
But sometimes you may need to give yourself this vaccine at home. If so, your doctor or nurse will show you exactly how to do it. Don't worry, it's not that difficult.
- If you are using a pen-type injection, don't forget to remove the outer needle cover before injecting.
- It is very important to never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They should be placed in a special sharps container. If you don't have one, you can ask your doctor for one.
What if I miss a medication appointment?
This is also an important issue.
- If you are getting vaccinated at the hospital: Don't forget to go on time. If you can't go, call ahead and let us know.
- If you are taking it at home: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Then take the next dose as usual. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled. Never take two doses at the same time. If you are in doubt, talk to your doctor.
What are the expected side effects?
Like any medicine, this one can have minor side effects, but not everyone gets them.
| Types of side effects | |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
Severe allergic reactions (Allergic reactions/Angioedema):
If you experience any of these symptoms, don't delay, go to a hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately. | |
| Common side effects that should be reported to your doctor if they persist | |
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How to store the medicine?
This is also something that needs to be done properly.
- Keep away from small children and pets.
- It is best to keep it in the fridge. Keep it in the original box. Take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you need to inject it. It should be used within 8 hours of taking it out.
- It can also be stored at room temperature, but not for more than 7 days. However, it should be kept in the original box. Once removed from the box, it should be used within 8 hours.
If you accidentally take too much medicine, immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Take-Home Message
- Mepolizumab is a medication for long-term control of asthma, not a medication for an acute attack.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all your medical conditions and allergies.
- Do not stop taking other asthma medications (especially inhalers) until your doctor tells you to.
- Store the vaccine properly and dispose of used needles safely.
- If you experience severe allergic symptoms such as facial swelling and difficulty breathing, seek medical advice immediately.
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