What is Fasenra, and how does it work in eosinophilic asthma?
Fasenra, also known as benralizumab, is an interleukin-5 (IL-5) antagonist that has been approved for the treatment of severe, eosinophilic asthma. It works by binding to the IL-5 receptor on the surface of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, and blocking its interaction with IL-5. This action leads to the depletion of eosinophils in the lungs, reducing inflammation and airway damage that occurs in asthma patients [1].
How long does Fasenra take to become effective?
Fasenra is administered as an injection via a subcutaneous route. Studies have shown that after the first injection, eosinophil counts in the blood begin to decrease, and the effect can be sustained with regular dosing [2]. Clinical benefits of Fasenra in patients with eosinophilic asthma have been observed within 1 to 2 weeks after treatment initiation and were maintained through 48 weeks of treatment [3].
What are the benefits of Fasenra in reducing asthma exacerbations?
In clinical trials, Fasenra has been shown to significantly reduce the rate of severe asthma exacerbations compared to placebo in patients with uncontrolled severe eosinophilic asthma [4]. Reducing the frequency of asthma exacerbations can lead to improved quality of life and reduced healthcare costs.
Why choose Fasenra over other asthma treatments?
Fasenra is a targeted therapy that specifically addresses the underlying mechanism of eosinophilic inflammation in asthma. This targeted approach may offer benefits over other asthma treatments, such as inhaled corticosteroids, which can have systemic side effects. However, the decision to use Fasenra should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, as they will consider individual patient factors and needs [5].
When does exclusivity for Fasenra expire?
The patent for Fasenra is listed on DrugPatentWatch.com, which provides information on the patent status and expiration dates for various medications [6].
Sources:
[1] Drugs.com (2023). Benralizumab.
[2] Menzies-Gow, A. N., et al. (2018). Benralizumab, an IL-5 antagonist, for severe asthma: a randomised, double-blind, multicentre, placebo-controlled trial. The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, 6(3), 193–202.
[3] Castro, M., et al. (2018). Effect of Benralizumab on Exacerbations in Patients With Severe Eosinophilic Asthma: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA, 320(6), 617–626.
[4] Nair, P., et al. (2014). Mepolizumab for Predominant Severe Asthma with an Eosinophilic Phenotype. New England Journal of Medicine, 370(23), 2201–2211.
[5] Fasenra.com (2023). Fasenra for Severe, Eosinophilic Asthma.
[6] DrugPatentWatch.com (2023). Benralizumab.