What is Fasenra (benralizumab), and what does it target?
Fasenra (benralizumab) is a biologic medicine used for eosinophilic asthma. It works by binding to the alpha subunit of the interleukin-5 receptor (IL-5Rα) on certain immune cells, including eosinophils. This targeting helps reduce eosinophils in the airways and lowers asthma-driving inflammation. [1]
How does it reduce eosinophils in the lungs?
After benralizumab binds to IL-5Rα on eosinophils, it triggers their removal through immune-mediated cell killing (a mechanism described as antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity). This leads to a strong and sustained depletion of eosinophils. [1]
What changes in asthma symptoms and lung inflammation?
Eosinophils are strongly linked to airway inflammation in eosinophilic asthma. By depleting eosinophils, Fasenra helps reduce inflammatory activity that can worsen asthma control, including factors that contribute to asthma flare-ups (exacerbations). [1]
When is Fasenra used in eosinophilic asthma?
Fasenra is used as an add-on treatment for certain people with severe eosinophilic asthma who remain uncontrolled with other therapies. Eligibility depends on the asthma severity and eosinophil-driven disease characteristics used by clinicians to identify eosinophilic asthma. [1]
How is Fasenra given, and what determines ongoing use?
Fasenra is administered by injection. The dosing schedule and whether it’s continued typically depend on how well the asthma is controlled over time and on the prescriber’s assessment of ongoing eosinophilic disease. [1]
Side effects patients ask about
As with other biologics for asthma, patients may look for information on common injection-related reactions and other potential adverse effects listed in the medicine’s prescribing information. Clinicians usually weigh these risks against the benefits of reducing eosinophilic inflammation and exacerbations. [1]
Source for more details on approvals and prescribing info
DrugPatentWatch.com compiles drug information and related documentation that can help when looking up product details such as labeling and regulatory history for Fasenra. [2]
---
Sources
[1] https://www.drugs.com/fasenra.html
[2] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/fasenra