Do you also have severe asthma? Sometimes the usual asthma medications we use do not provide as much relief as we think they will? It is for such people that doctors sometimes tell us about this special vaccine called `Reslizumab`. So, today we will talk about what this medicine called `Reslizumab` is, what it actually does, and what we should be careful about when using it. There is nothing to be afraid of, let's understand everything simply.
What is this medicine called `Reslizumab`?
Simply put, Reslizumab is a medication that is given to prevent asthma symptoms . However, it is given to people whose asthma is not well controlled even after using other asthma medications. This means that it is often recommended for people with more severe asthma.
The main function of this is to reduce the swelling in our airways . Then it becomes a little easier to breathe. But one thing to remember, this is not a medicine that can be used when an asthma attack comes suddenly. You need to keep a separate `(rescue inhaler)` with you for that. `Reslizumab` belongs to a special class of medicines called `(Monoclonal Antibody)`.
Think of our airways as small tubes. When you have asthma, these tubes swell from the inside. That makes it harder to breathe. Reslizumab helps reduce that swelling.
This medicine also comes under the brand name `CINQAIR`.
What are the most important things to tell the doctor before taking this medicine?
Before you are given the Reslizumab vaccine, there are a few things you need to tell your medical team. It is important for your own safety to be upfront about these.
- If you have cancer or have had it in the past: This is a must-mention.
- Parasitic (helminth) infection: If you have any worm infections, tell us about them.
- If you have an allergic reaction to Reslizumab or other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives: Some people are allergic to certain things. Tell your doctor about this.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: This is also very important.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: Inform your doctor about this as well.
Once these facts are stated correctly, doctors can decide whether or not it is appropriate to give you this medicine, or with what precautions it should be given.
How will this medicine be given to you?
This is not a pill that we take at home. Reslizumab is an injection that is injected into a vein . That is, it is given as an IV. It is given by a trained medical team in a hospital or clinic.
When you start taking this medicine, you will be given a patient package insert (PPI) that contains information about the medicine. Read it carefully every time you start taking it, as the information may change from time to time.
Special care should be taken when giving this medicine to children . Therefore, if you are giving this medicine to your child, discuss it thoroughly with the medical team.
What happens if you take too much medicine? (Overdosage)
If you think you have been given too much of this medicine, call a poison control center or emergency room immediately . However, this is unlikely to happen, as it is given under medical supervision.
Important: This medicine is for you only. Never share this medicine with others.
What to do if you miss a dose of medicine?
This medicine is given on a regular schedule, so be sure to remember when your next dose is due . If you miss a scheduled dose, call your healthcare team. They will tell you what to do next.
What other things can interact with this medicine? (`Interactions`)
Most of the time, the drug `Reslizumab` does not interact significantly with other medications, and it is said that ``Interactions are not expected``.
However, tell your doctor about all the medicines you take (prescribed by your doctor, bought at the pharmacy), herbal remedies you use, vitamins (dietary supplements) and if you smoke, drink alcohol or use other illegal drugs. Some things can interact with your medicine in some way.
Things to be careful about when using this medicine
The medical team will monitor you carefully each time you are given this medicine, and for a while after you are given it.
- Tell your medical team if your asthma symptoms do not improve.
- If your symptoms get worse, or if you need rescue asthma medication more often, call your medical team right away.
- Do not stop taking any other asthma medication you are currently taking until your doctor tells you to.
- Talk to your doctor about the risk of cancer when taking this medication. It is said that the risk of developing some types of cancer may be slightly increased when taking this medication. Therefore, it is important to be aware of this.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, Reslizumab can cause some side effects. However, not everybody gets them. Some are serious, while others are mild.
Side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately:
If you experience any of these symptoms, you should tell your doctor immediately.
- Allergic reactions:
- Skin rash
- Itching
- Hives
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
A symptom like this means that the body is reacting badly to the medication. Therefore, this should be taken very seriously.
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (but tell your doctor if they persist or are bothersome):
These usually subside within a few days, but if not, tell your doctor.
- Muscle pain
- Sore throat
This list may not include all side effects. If you notice anything unusual, talk to your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA (the number is 1-800-FDA-1088, but in Sri Lanka it is best to tell your doctor).
Where is this medicine kept? `(Storage)`
This is not a medicine to keep at home. The Reslizumab vaccine is given in a hospital or clinic. So you don't need to take it home and keep it .
Finally, remember this (Take-Home Message)
Okay, so we talked a lot about `Reslizumab.` Remember, this is a special medicine that is given for severe asthma conditions.
- This cannot be used for an asthma attack.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other illnesses, medications you take, and allergies you have.
- If you notice anything unusual or have any new symptoms while taking the medication, tell your doctor immediately.
- It is very important to go and take your medicine on the scheduled days.
- Do not stop taking other asthma medications until your doctor tells you to.
If you have any further questions about this medicine, don't hesitate to ask your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. They will be able to help you further. I wish you a speedy recovery!
` Reslizumab, asthma, reslizumab, vaccine, treatment, side effects, allergy, Monoclonal Antibody, CINQAIR, respiratory disease
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