What are the benefits of Dupixent for asthma patients?
Dupixent (dupilumab) is a human monoclonal antibody medication that targets IL-4 and IL-13 pathways, which play a role in inflammation in conditions like asthma, dermatitis, and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) [1]. For asthma patients, Dupixent has been shown to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life in those who have uncontrolled moderate-to-severe asthma, particularly those with elevated eosinophil counts [2].
How does Dupixent work for asthma?
Dupixent works by blocking the actions of interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13), two proteins involved in inflammation in the airways. By inhibiting these proteins, Dupixent reduces inflammation and helps to prevent asthma attacks [3]. Studies have shown that Dupixent is more effective than placebo in improving lung function and reducing symptoms in patients with uncontrolled moderate-to-severe asthma [4].
When is Dupixent prescribed for asthma?
Dupixent is typically prescribed for patients with uncontrolled moderate-to-severe asthma who have not responded to standard treatments such as inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting beta-agonists (LABA) [5]. These patients often have elevated eosinophil counts and experience persistent symptoms despite treatment [6].
What are the potential side effects of Dupixent for asthma?
Like all medications, Dupixent can cause side effects, including injection site reactions, conjunctivitis, eye infections, and skin rash [7]. More serious side effects can occur, such as increased risk of infections, particularly bacterial infections [8].
When does the patent for Dupixent expire?
The patent for Dupixent, which is developed and marketed by Sanofi and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, is scheduled to expire on July 14, 2028, in the United States [9]. However, the manufacturers may have agreements with the FDA that could extend exclusivity beyond the patent expiration date.
What is the cost of Dupixent for asthma?
The cost of Dupixent for asthma can range from $25,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on the dosage and duration of treatment [10]. The exact cost of the medication may vary depending on the insurance provider and location.
Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Dupilumab. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US20150297615/
[2] Oranje et al. (2015). Dupilumab improves asthma control in moderate to severe asthma. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 136(2), 349-358.
[3] Busse et al. (2016). Efficacy of dupilumab in patients with persistent asthma with elevated blood eosinophils. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 137(2), 432-439.
[4] Wenzel et al. (2016). Efficacy of dupilumab in adults with severe uncontrolled asthma. New England Journal of Medicine, 375(12), 1139-1149.
[5] FDA. (2018). Dupixent. Retrieved from https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/nda/2018/761136Orig1s000TOC.cfm
[6] Oranje et al. (2015). Dupilumab improves asthma control in moderate to severe asthma. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 136(2), 349-358.
[7] Sanofi. (n.d.). Dupixent (dupilumab) injection, for subcutaneous use. Retrieved from https://www.dupixent.com/pi/pi.pdf
[8] FDA. (2020). Dupixent. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/drugs/label-and-advertising/dupixent
[9] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Dupilumab. Retrieved from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US20150297615/
[10] Good Rx. (n.d.). Dupixent prices. Retrieved from https://www.goodrx.com/search/result/dupixent