Fasenra (benralizumab)

Fasenra is a brand-name drug that’s prescribed for severe eosinophilic asthma in certain people. The medication is available as a solution that’s injected subcutaneously using a prefilled syringe or an autoinjector pen.

Fasenra is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat severe eosinophilic asthma in adults and children ages 12 years and older. Asthma is a condition in which your airways become swollen, making it hard to breathe. With eosinophilic asthma, you also have high levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell).
eosinophilic asthma
Asthma
eosinophils
You’ll use Fasenra with your other asthma medications rather than by itself. Keep in mind that Fasenra isn’t a rescue inhaler. So you shouldn’t use it to treat asthma flare-ups or a severe kind of asthma called status asthmaticus. Fasenra also shouldn’t be used to treat other eosinophilic conditions.
rescue inhaler
asthma flare-ups
status asthmaticus
You’ll find key information about Fasenra below.
Drug class: interleukin-5 monoclonal antibodies
Drug form: solution that’s administered as a subcutaneous injection, with a: prefilled syringe, which is given by a healthcare professional prefilled autoinjector pen, which you can give yourself after receiving training
subcutaneous injection
prefilled syringe, which is given by a healthcare professional
prefilled autoinjector pen, which you can give yourself after receiving training
Generic or biosimilar available? no
Prescription required? yes
Controlled substance? no
Year of FDA approval: 2017
Fasenra generic or biosimilar
Fasenra is available only as a brand-name medication. Fasenra isn’t currently available in a biosimilar form.
biosimilar
A biosimilar medication is a drug that’s similar to a brand-name biologic drug (the parent drug). Fasenra is a biologic medication, which are made from living cells. It’s not possible to copy these drugs exactly.
Generics, on the other hand, are drugs made from chemicals. A generic is an exact copy of the active ingredient in a brand-name medication.
Generics
Biosimilars are considered to be just as safe and effective as their parent drug. And like generics, biosimilars tend to cost less than brand-name medications.
Fasenra side effects
Fasenra can cause mild or serious side effects. The following lists contain some of the key side effects that may occur while taking Fasenra. These lists don’t include all possible side effects.
For more information on the possible side effects of Fasenra, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can give you tips on how to deal with any side effects that may bother you.
Note: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) tracks side effects of drugs they have approved. If you would like to report to the FDA a side effect you’ve had with Fasenra, you can do so through MedWatch.
MedWatch
The more common side effects of Fasenra can include:
headache
headache
sore throat
sore throat
If you have a headache or sore throat after taking Fasenra, the side effects will likely fade. But you should tell your doctor if these side effects become more severe or don’t go away. If needed, your doctor can recommend treatments to help you feel better.
Serious side effects from Fasenra aren’t common, but they can occur. Allergic reaction, which is discussed in detail below, was the only serious side effect reported during clinical studies.
Allergic reaction
clinical studies
You may wonder how often certain side effects occur with this drug, or whether certain side effects pertain to it. Here’s some detail on several of the side effects this drug may or may not cause.
As with most drugs, some people can have an allergic reaction after taking Fasenra. This was a rare side effect in clinical studies of this drug.
allergic reaction
clinical studies
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Fasenra can include:
swelling of your face, including your mouth and tongue
trouble breathing
fainting
dizziness
low blood pressure or feeling lightheaded
low blood pressure
rash
hives (itchy welts on your skin)
hives
Call your doctor right away if you have a severe allergic reaction to Fasenra. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency.
Headaches may occur with Fasenra use. In clinical studies of Fasenra, this was a common side effect.
clinical studies
Although headaches can be common while using Fasenra, they’re usually not serious. If you have a headache during your treatment, it’ll likely go away after a few hours. But if a headache doesn’t go away, let your doctor know. They may recommend treatments to help you feel better.
A fever may occur after Fasenra use, but this side effect was rare in clinical studies. The fevers weren’t serious and didn’t cause any problems with people’s asthma treatment.
fever
clinical studies
asthma
If you have a fever after taking Fasenra, you can try to make yourself more comfortable by taking a cool bath.
But if your fever lasts more than 3 days or is higher than 103°F (about 39.4°C), tell your doctor. They may recommend treatments to help reduce your fever and check to see what may be causing it.
Pain, scratchiness, or irritation in the throat may occur with Fasenra. This was a common side effect in clinical studies of Fasenra.
clinical studies
If you have a sore throat while using Fasenra, it’ll probably improve on its own within a few days.
But if your throat pain is severe or lasts more than a few days, tell your doctor. They may look at your throat and recommend treatments to help you feel better.
In clinical studies, Fasenra was found to be safe for use in children ages 12 years and older. The side effects seen in children were very similar to those seen in adults. See the “Side effect details” section above to learn more.
clinical studies
Fasenra dosage
Fasenra is prescribed using a standard dosage. This means that most people taking the drug will be prescribed the same dosage. Dosage means the amount of drug you take for each dose and how often you take a dose.
The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.
For more information about dosages of Fasenra, see this detailed article.
detailed article
Fasenra comes as a solution that’s given as a subcutaneous injection. It’s available in two injection two forms:
subcutaneous injection
A prefilled syringe. A healthcare professional will give you the drug as a subcutaneous injection.
A prefilled autoinjector pen. You can use the pen to give yourself injections after you receive training from your doctor or pharmacist.
Each syringe or pen contains one dose of Fasenra. Both forms of the drug have one strength: 30 mg/mL.
During the first 3 months of treatment, you’ll have one injection (30 mg/mL) once every 4 weeks. After that, you’ll have one injection once every 8 weeks.
The dosage of Fasenra for children ages 12 years and older is the same as for adults. (See the “Dosage for asthma” section right above.)
Fasenra isn’t approved for use in children younger than age 12 years.
If you miss a dose of Fasenra, call your doctor right away. They’ll help you decide when you should have your next dose.
To avoid missing a dose of Fasenra, try setting a reminder on your phone or calendar.
Fasenra is meant to be used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Fasenra is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely take it long term.
Fasenra cost
As with all medications, the cost of Fasenra can vary. The actual price you’ll pay depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use.
insurance
It’s important to note that if you use the autoinjector pen form of Fasenra, you’ll have to get it at a specialty pharmacy. This type of pharmacy is authorized to carry specialty medications. These are drugs that may be expensive or may require help from healthcare professionals to be used safely and effectively.
Your insurance plan may require you to get prior authorization before approving coverage for Fasenra. This means that your doctor and insurance company will need to communicate about your prescription before the insurance company will cover the drug. The insurance company will review the request and let you and your doctor know if your plan will cover Fasenra.
If you’re not sure if you’ll need to get prior authorization for Fasenra, contact your insurance company.
To learn more about Fasenra’s cost, see this in-depth article.
in-depth article
If you need financial support to pay for Fasenra, or if you need help understanding your insurance coverage, help is available.
AstraZeneca, the manufacturer of Fasenra, has reimbursement counselors on staff who can discuss cost savings options with you. For more information and to find out if you’re eligible for support, call 833-360-HELP (833-360-4357) or visit the program website.
833-360-4357
program website
Alternatives to Fasenra
Other drugs are available that can treat severe eosinophilic asthma. With this condition, high levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) are found in your airways. These cells cause inflammation (swelling) and trigger asthma flare-ups.
eosinophilic asthma
eosinophils
inflammation
Some drugs may be better suited for you than others. If you’re interested in finding an alternative to Fasenra, talk with your doctor. They can tell you about other medications that may work well for you.
Examples of drugs that may be used to treat severe eosinophilic asthma include:
reslizumab (Cinqair)
Cinqair
mepolizumab (Nucala)
Nucala
dupilumab (Dupixent)
Dupixent
Fasenra vs. Nucala
You may wonder how Fasenra compares to other medications that are prescribed for similar uses. Here we look at how Fasenra and Nucala are alike and different.
Nucala
Fasenra contains the active drug benralizumab, while Nucala contains the active drug mepolizumab.
Both Fasenra and Nucala are called biologic drugs because they’re made from living cells rather than from chemicals. Both drugs are also known as monoclonal antibodies. These types of drugs are large proteins that affect the way certain parts of your body work.
Fasenra and Nucala both belong to the same class of drugs called anti-interleukin 5 monoclonal antibodies. (A drug class is a group of medications that work in a similar way in your body.)
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Fasenra and Nucala to treat severe eosinophilic asthma in adults as well as children. Fasenra may be used in children ages 12 years and older. Nucala, on the other hand, may be used in children ages 6 years and older.
eosinophilic asthma
Asthma is a condition in which your airways become swollen, making it hard to breathe. With eosinophilic asthma, you also have high levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell).
Asthma
eosinophils
You should use Fasenra and Nucala in addition to your other asthma medications rather than by themselves. Neither drug is a rescue inhaler. So you shouldn’t them to treat asthma flare-ups or a severe kind of asthma called status asthmaticus.
rescue inhaler
status asthmaticus
Fasenra also shouldn’t be used to treat other eosinophilic conditions.
Nucala, on the other hand, has other approved uses. In certain people, Nucala is also approved to treat:
eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis in adults
eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis
hypereosinophilic syndrome (a blood disorder that causes high levels of eosinophils) in adults and children ages 12 years and older
eosinophils
chronic rhinosinusitis (long-term inflammation of the nasal passage and sinuses) with nasal polyps in adults
nasal polyps
For more information about Nucala’s uses, you can see the drug’s prescribing information.
prescribing information
Fasenra comes as a solution that’s given as a subcutaneous injection. It’s available in two injection forms:
subcutaneous injection
A prefilled syringe. A healthcare professional will give you the drug as a subcutaneous injection.
A prefilled autoinjector pen. You can use the pen to give yourself injections after you receive training from a healthcare professional.
Each syringe or pen contains one dose of Fasenra.
Nucala comes in these three forms:
A vial of powder. A healthcare professional will mix the powder with sterile water to form a solution. Then they’ll give you the medication as a subcutaneous injection.
A prefilled autoinjector pen. Once a healthcare professional teaches you how to use the pen, you’ll be able to give yourself injections under your skin.
A prefilled syringe. As with the pen form, once you learn how to use the syringe, you can give yourself injections under your skin.
Each vial, autoinjector pen, or syringe contains one dose of Nucala.
Fasenra and Nucala belong to the same class of drugs. Therefore, both medications can cause some similar side effects. But they can also cause some different side effects. Below are examples of these side effects.
These lists contain examples of more common side effects that can occur with Fasenra, with Nucala, or with both drugs (when taken individually).
Can occur with Fasenra:sore throat
sore throat
sore throat
Can occur with Nucala:reactions at the site of your injection (discoloration, swelling, pain, or burning in the injection area)fatigueback pain
reactions at the site of your injection (discoloration, swelling, pain, or burning in the injection area)
fatigue
fatigue
back pain
back pain
Can occur with both Fasenra and Nucala:headache
headache
headache
These lists contain examples of serious side effects that can occur with Fasenra, with Nucala, or with both drugs (when taken individually).
Can occur with Fasenra:no unique serious side effects
no unique serious side effects
Can occur with Nucala:shingles
shingles
shingles
Can occur with both Fasenra and Nucala:severe allergic reaction
severe allergic reaction
allergic reaction
Fasenra and Nucala are both brand-name drugs. There are currently no biosimilar forms of either drug available.
A biosimilar is a drug that’s similar to a brand-name medication. A generic drug, on the other hand, is an exact copy of a brand-name medication. Biosimilars are based on biologic medications, which are made from living cells. Generics are based on regular medications, which are made from chemicals. Biosimilars and generics also usually cost less than brand-name drugs.
Both biosimilars and generics are considered to be just as safe and effective as their parent drugs. However, brand-name medications usually cost more than biosimilars or generics.
The actual price you’ll pay for either drug depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use.
Fasenra vs. Xolair
Like Nucala (above), the drug Xolair has uses similar to those of Fasenra. Here’s a comparison of how Fasenra and Xolair are alike and different.
Xolair
Fasenra contains the drug benralizumab, while Xolair contains the drug omalizumab.
Both Fasenra and Xolair are called biologic drugs because they’re made from living cells rather than from chemicals. Both drugs are also known as monoclonal antibodies. These types of drugs are large proteins that affect the way certain parts of your body work.
Fasenra belongs to a class of drugs called interleukin-5 monoclonal antibodies. Xolair belongs to a different class of drugs called immunoglobin-E monoclonal antibodies. (A drug class is a group of medications that work in a similar way in your body.)
Here’s some information about the uses of Fasenra and Xolair.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Fasenra to treat severe eosinophilic asthma in adults as well as children ages 12 years and older. Asthma is a condition in which your airways become swollen, making it hard to breathe. With eosinophilic asthma, you also have high levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell).
eosinophilic asthma
Asthma
eosinophils
You’ll use Fasenra with your other asthma medications rather than by itself. Keep in mind that Fasenra isn’t a rescue inhaler. So you shouldn’t use it to treat asthma flare-ups or a severe kind of asthma called status asthmaticus. Fasenra also shouldn’t be used to treat other eosinophilic conditions.
rescue inhaler
asthma flare-ups
status asthmaticus
Xolair is FDA-approved to treat allergic asthma that’s moderate to severe and persistent. For this use, the drug is approved in adults as well as children ages 6 years and older.
In certain people, Xolair is also approved to treat:
chronic idiopathic urticaria (hives) in adults as well as children ages 12 years and older
chronic idiopathic urticaria
nasal polyps in adults
nasal polyps
You’ll use Xolair with your other asthma medications rather than by itself. Keep in mind that Xolair isn’t a rescue inhaler. So you shouldn’t use it to treat asthma flare-ups or a severe kind of asthma called status asthmaticus. Xolair also shouldn’t be used to treat other eosinophilic conditions.
rescue inhaler
asthma flare-ups
status asthmaticus
For more information about Xolair’s uses, you can see the drug’s prescribing information.
prescribing information
Fasenra comes as a solution that’s given as a subcutaneous injection. It’s available in two injection forms:
subcutaneous injection
A prefilled syringe. A healthcare professional will give you the drug as a subcutaneous injection.
A prefilled autoinjector pen. You can use the pen to give yourself injections after you receive training from a healthcare professional.
Each syringe or pen contains one dose of Fasenra.
Xolair also comes in these two forms:
A prefilled syringe. You can use the syringe to give yourself injections after you receive training from a healthcare professional.
A prefilled autoinjector pen. You can use the pen to give yourself injections after you receive training from a healthcare professional.
A vial of powder. A healthcare professional will mix the powder with sterile water to form a solution. Then they’ll give you the medication as a subcutaneous injection.
Both the syringe and vial contain one dose of Xolair.
Fasenra and Xolair are both monoclonal antibodies, but they have different effects on your body. Therefore, both medications can cause some similar or some different side effects. Below are examples of these side effects.
These lists contain examples of more common side effects that can occur with Xolair, or with Fasenra and Xolair (when taken individually).
Can occur with Fasenra:no unique common side effects
no unique common side effects
Can occur with Xolair:pain in your body, such as in your ears, arms, joints, or legsfatiguedizzinessbone fracturesskin rashrespiratory tract infection, such as the common cold or a sinus infectionnosebleednausea or vomiting
pain in your body, such as in your ears, arms, joints, or legs
fatigue
fatigue
dizziness
bone fractures
bone fractures
skin rash
respiratory tract infection, such as the common cold or a sinus infection
respiratory tract infection
nosebleed
nosebleed
nausea or vomiting
nausea or vomiting
Can occur with both Fasenra and Xolair:headachesore throatfever
headache
headache
sore throat
sore throat
fever
fever
These lists contain examples of serious side effects that can occur with Xolair, or with Fasenra and Xolair (when taken individually).
Can occur with Fasenra:no unique serious side effects
no unique serious side effects
Can occur with Xolair:cancer, such as breast, skin, or prostate cancerinflammation in your blood vesselsfever, joint pain, and rash that happen 1 to 5 days after getting a dose of Xolairinfections caused by parasitesheart problems, such as a heart attack or chest painproblems with your blood circulation, such as blood clots in your lungs or legs
cancer, such as breast, skin, or prostate cancer
inflammation in your blood vessels
fever, joint pain, and rash that happen 1 to 5 days after getting a dose of Xolair
infections caused by parasites
infections caused by parasites
heart problems, such as a heart attack or chest pain
heart attack
problems with your blood circulation, such as blood clots in your lungs or legs
Can occur with both Fasenra and Xolairrisk of severe allergic reaction*
risk of severe allergic reaction*
allergic reaction
* Xolair has a boxed warning for a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
Xolair
boxed warning
anaphylaxis
Fasenra and Xolair are both brand-name drugs. There are currently no biosimilar forms of either drug available.
A biosimilar is a drug that’s similar to a brand-name medication. A generic drug, on the other hand, is an exact copy of a brand-name medication. Biosimilars are based on biologic medications, which are made from living cells. Generics are based on regular medications, which are made from chemicals. Biosimilars and generics also usually cost less than brand-name drugs.
Both biosimilars and generics are considered to be just as safe and effective as their parent drugs. However, brand-name medications usually cost more than biosimilars or generics.
The actual price you’ll pay for either drug depends on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use.
Fasenra vs. Dupixent
You might also be interested in how Fasenra compares with Dupixent. Here’s a look at some of their similarities and differences.
Dupixent
Fasenra contains the active drug benralizumab, and Dupixent contains the drug dupilumab.
Both Fasenra and Dupixent are called biologic drugs because they’re made from living cells rather than from chemicals. Both drugs are known as monoclonal antibodies. These types of drugs are large proteins that affect the way certain parts of your body work.
Fasenra belongs to a class of drugs called interleukin-5 monoclonal antibodies. Dupixent belongs to a different class of drugs called interleukin-4 monoclonal antibodies. (A drug class is a group of medications that work in a similar way in your body.)
Here’s some information about the uses of Fasenra and Dupixent.
Fasenra is FDA-approved to treat severe eosinophilic asthma in adults and children ages 12 years and older. Asthma is a condition in which your airways become swollen, making it hard to breathe. With eosinophilic asthma, you also experience high levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell).
eosinophilic asthma
Asthma
eosinophils
You’ll use Fasenra with your other asthma medications rather than by itself. Keep in mind that Fasenra isn’t a rescue inhaler. So you shouldn’t use it to treat asthma flare-ups or a severe kind of asthma called status asthmaticus. Fasenra also shouldn’t be used to treat other eosinophilic conditions.
rescue inhaler
asthma flare-ups
status asthmaticus
Dupixent is FDA-approved to treat:
Moderate to severe atopic dermatitis: It’s prescribed for atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults and for children ages 6 months and older. Dupixent can be used for eczema when symptoms can’t be managed with topical prescription drugs, or when those drugs should not be used.
eczema
Moderate to severe asthma: It’s prescribed for eosinophilic asthma or oral corticosteroid-dependent asthma in adults and for children ages 6 years and older. Dupixent is used as an add-on maintenance (long-term) treatment. Rescue inhalers should still be used as needed for asthma attacks or symptoms such as trouble breathing. Dupixent should never be used to treat a sudden asthma attack.
eosinophilic asthma
corticosteroid
asthma
Rescue inhalers
Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: It’s prescribed for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps in adults whose symptoms are not well managed. It’s used as an add-on to maintenance treatment.
nasal polyps
Eosinophilic esophagitis: It’s prescribed for eosinophilic esophagitis in adults and children ages 1 year and older who weigh at least 15 kilograms (kg) (about 33 pounds [lb]).
eosinophilic esophagitis
Prurigo nodularis. It’s prescribed for prurigo nodularis in adults.
prurigo nodularis
For more information about Dupixent, including what it’s used to treat, you can see the drug’s prescribing information.
prescribing information
Fasenra uses
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves prescription drugs such as Fasenra to treat certain conditions. Fasenra may also be used off-label for other conditions. Off-label use is when a drug that’s approved to treat one condition is prescribed to treat a different condition.
off-label
Fasenra is FDA-approved to treat severe eosinophilic asthma in adults as well as children ages 12 years and older.
eosinophilic asthma
You’ll use Fasenra with your other asthma medications rather than by itself. Keep in mind that Fasenra isn’t a rescue inhaler. So you shouldn’t use it to treat asthma flare-ups or a severe kind of asthma called status asthmaticus. Fasenra also shouldn’t be used to treat other eosinophilic conditions.
rescue inhaler
asthma flare-ups
status asthmaticus
Asthma is a condition that affects your airways, making them swollen. As a result, air can’t move properly into and out of your lungs. Asthma is called severe when you keep having symptoms despite using multiple asthma treatments.
Asthma
With severe eosinophilic asthma, you have high levels of eosinophils in your body. These are a type of white blood cell that are found mostly in your airways. High levels of eosinophils can cause swelling in your airways and lead to severe eosinophilic asthma. You can find details about asthma by visiting our asthma and allergies hub.
eosinophils
asthma and allergies hub
In addition to the use listed above, Fasenra may be used off-label for other conditions. Off-label drug use is when a drug that’s approved for one condition is used for a different one that’s not approved.
Fasenra for nasal polyps (off-label use)
Nasal polyps are growths in the lining of your nose that aren’t cancerous. Fasenra isn’t currently approved to treat nasal polyps. However, a recent clinical trial found the drug to be effective for reducing the symptoms of this condition when used with maintenance treatment. A review of studies supports using medications that are in the same class as Fasenra to treat nasal polyps. (A drug class is a group of medications that work in a similar way in your body.)
Nasal polyps
review of studies
If you have nasal polyps and you’re interested in taking Fasenra, talk with your doctor. They’ll recommend whether the drug is a good option for you.
Fasenra for COPD (not an appropriate use)
Fasenra isn’t approved for use in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Two clinical studies found that Fasenra was not effective at preventing flare-ups in people with moderate to very severe COPD. Ask your doctor what other COPD treatment options are right for you.
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
clinical studies
Fasenra is approved to treat severe eosinophilic asthma in children ages 12 years and older.
Fasenra hasn’t been studied in children younger than 12 years of age.
Fasenra use with other drugs
Fasenra is meant to be used with the other medications you’re taking for asthma treatment. Fasenra does not replace your rescue inhaler, which is used to treat sudden asthma symptoms.
asthma
rescue inhaler
Additionally, Fasenra isn’t meant to replace any of your drugs, including corticosteroids. Your doctor will likely have you continue to use inhaled or oral corticosteroids. In some cases, they may gradually reduce your corticosteroid dosage. However, you shouldn’t suddenly stop or change your use of corticosteroids on your own. Doing so could cause harmful effects.
corticosteroids
Continue using your rescue inhaler and other asthma medications as directed by your doctor.
Drugs often used to treat asthma that may be used with Fasenra include:
inhaled and oral corticosteroids, such as: beclometasone (Qvar)budesonide (Pulmicort)ciclesonide (Alvesco)fluticasone (ArmonAir, Arnuity, Flovent)mometasone (Asmanex)triamcinolone
inhaled
beclometasone (Qvar)
budesonide (Pulmicort)
Pulmicort
ciclesonide (Alvesco)
Alvesco
fluticasone (ArmonAir, Arnuity, Flovent)
mometasone (Asmanex)
triamcinolone
beta-adrenergic bronchodilators, such as: albuterol (Proventil HFA, Ventolin HFA)terbutaline (Brethine)
bronchodilators
albuterol (Proventil HFA, Ventolin HFA)
Ventolin HFA
terbutaline (Brethine)
leukotriene pathway modifiers, such as: montelukast (Singulair)
montelukast (Singulair)
Singulair
muscarinic antagonists such as: tiotropium (Spiriva)ipratropium (Atrovent HFA)
tiotropium (Spiriva)
Spiriva
ipratropium (Atrovent HFA)
Atrovent HFA
theophylline
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about which medications you’ll need to take with Fasenra. They can help make sure that you feel comfortable with your treatment plan.
Common questions about Fasenra
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Fasenra.
Yes. Fasenra is a biologic drug, which is created from living cells. In comparison, regular drugs are made from chemicals.
biologic
Fasenra is also a monoclonal antibody. This is a type of drug that attaches to proteins in your immune system (your body’s defense against infection). By doing this, Fasenra blocks some of the actions of the proteins that cause symptoms of asthma.
immune system
asthma
No, you shouldn’t. Fasenra isn’t meant to treat sudden asthma symptoms, which are called asthma attacks or flare-ups. Instead, Fasenra is used as a long-term asthma treatment. The drug works in your body to help prevent asthma flare-ups in the first place.
flare-ups
If you do have an asthma attack, Fasenra won’t help treat your symptoms. You’ll probably need to use your rescue inhaler, as directed by your doctor. Check with your doctor on the best ways to treat asthma attacks and help prevent them.
rescue inhaler
No. Fasenra isn’t a steroid. It’s a type of drug called a biologic. (For more about biologics, see “Is Fasenra a biologic?” above.) Steroids are medications that are made from a combination of chemicals.
Even though Fasenra and steroids are both used to treat asthma, these drugs work differently in your body. Fasenra targets and removes eosinophils from your body. Eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) are found in your airways. These cells cause inflammation (swelling) and trigger asthma flare-ups. Steroids reduce inflammation and decrease the amount of mucus in your airways. This makes it easier for you to breathe.
Eosinophils
inflammation
You’ll often take steroids every day for long-term treatment, or you may take them just during asthma flare-ups. But you won’t take Fasenra every day, and it isn’t effective during asthma flare-ups.
If you have questions about steroids or Fasenra, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
You might. Fasenra isn’t meant to replace any of your current asthma medications. You’ll use Fasenra with the other drugs you’re taking, which may include steroids (also called corticosteroids).
corticosteroids
In some cases, your doctor may gradually reduce your corticosteroid dosage during Fasenra treatment. However, you shouldn’t suddenly stop or change your use of corticosteroids on your own. Doing so could cause harmful effects.
Continue using your other asthma medications as directed by your doctor. You can also talk with your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about Fasenra and your other asthma medications.
No, Fasenra isn’t known to cause long-term side effects. In clinical trials, people who took the drug for up to 48 weeks did not experience any long-term side effects. And no long-term side effects have been reported since the drug became available.
clinical trials
However, if you develop a side effect that doesn’t go away, talk with your doctor. They can help determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend ways to manage them.
Fasenra and alcohol
There aren’t any known interactions between Fasenra and alcohol. But alcohol can be dangerous for people with asthma.
alcohol
asthma
According to data from the National Readmissions Database and the National Emergency Department Sample, drinking alcohol can trigger asthma flare-ups.
data
asthma flare-ups
If you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor about how much is safe for you to consume during your Fasenra treatment.
Fasenra interactions
There aren’t any known interactions between Fasenra and any drugs, herbs, foods, or supplements.
interactions
Before taking Fasenra, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Tell them about all prescription, over-the-counter, and other drugs you take. Also tell them about any vitamins, herbs, and supplements you use. Sharing this information can help you avoid potential interactions.
If you have questions about drug interactions that may affect you, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
How Fasenra is used
Fasenra comes as a solution that’s given as a subcutaneous injection. It’s available in two injection forms: a prefilled syringe and a prefilled autoinjector pen.
subcutaneous injection
With the prefilled syringe form, a healthcare professional will give you Fasenra as a subcutaneous injection. You’ll go to your doctor’s office or a clinic for the injections.
subcutaneous injection
The healthcare professional may inject Fasenra into different parts of your body such as your upper arms, thighs, or abdomen.
Before leaving the office or clinic, make sure that you have an appointment for your next Fasenra injection scheduled.
With the prefilled autoinjector pen form, you’ll use the pen to give yourself injections after you receive training from a healthcare professional.
The Fasenra site also has some useful resources on using the autoinjector pen. These include an FAQ, a video, and how to contact a nurse for training help.
Fasenra site
During the first 3 months of treatment, you’ll have one injection once every 4 weeks. After that, you’ll have one injection once every 8 weeks.
To avoid missing a dose, try setting a reminder on your phone or calendar.
How Fasenra works
Fasenra is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat severe eosinophilic asthma in adults as well as children ages 12 years and older.
eosinophilic asthma
You’ll use Fasenra with your other asthma medications rather than by itself. Keep in mind that Fasenra isn’t a rescue inhaler. So you shouldn’t use it to treat asthma flare-ups or a severe kind of asthma called status asthmaticus. Fasenra also shouldn’t be used to treat other eosinophilic conditions.
rescue inhaler
asthma flare-ups
status asthmaticus
Asthma is a condition that affects your airways, which are a network of tubes that allow air to move from outside of your body into your lungs. Asthma is called severe when you keep having symptoms despite using multiple asthma treatments.
Asthma
If you have asthma, your airways are swollen. As a result, air can’t move properly into and out of your lungs. Since oxygen is carried in air, this condition reduces how much oxygen reaches the cells inside your body. The most common symptoms of asthma include:
wheezing
coughing
chest pain
trouble breathing
With severe eosinophilic asthma, you have high levels of eosinophils in your body. These are a type of white blood cell that are found mostly in your airways. Normal levels of eosinophils help your body fight against infections. But higher levels can cause swelling in your airways and lead to severe eosinophilic asthma.
eosinophils
Eosinophils contain a protein called interleukin-5 receptor. Fasenra attaches to eosinophils by binding to this receptor. Once Fasenra is attached, it tells your immune system to destroy the eosinophils. This reduces the number of eosinophils in your airways. As a result, there’s less inflammation (swelling), and you have a lower risk for asthma flare-ups.
immune system
inflammation
Fasenra removes almost all eosinophils from your blood within 24 hours after taking the drug. But severe eosinophilic asthma typically requires treatment for some time before the condition improves.
Fasenra should reduce your risk for asthma flare-ups as long as you keep taking it. Don’t stop taking Fasenra if your asthma eases and you have fewer flare-ups, unless your doctor tells you to do so. Stopping treatment may reduce the effect of Fasenra and lead to asthma flare-ups.
Fasenra and pregnancy
It’s unknown whether Fasenra is safe to take while pregnant. There haven’t been clinical trials in humans that show the effect of the drug during pregnancy. However, clinical trials of similar medications suggest that if Fasenra is used during the third trimester of pregnancy (week 28 through the birth of your baby), the drug will pass to the developing fetus.
clinical trials
In animal studies, Fasenra didn’t cause harm to the offspring of animals given the drug. But animal studies don’t always predict what may occur in humans.
animal studies
If you’re pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor before taking Fasenra. They can let you know whether it’s safe for you to take Fasenra and recommend other treatment options if needed.
The pregnancy registry for Fasenra is closed for enrollment. It was available for pregnant people who took Fasenra during pregnancy. Such registries help doctors learn more about the safety of certain drugs during pregnancy.
closed
Fasenra and birth control
It’s unknown if Fasenra is safe to take during pregnancy. If you or your sexual partner can become pregnant, talk with your doctor about your birth control needs while you’re using Fasenra.
birth control
Fasenra and breastfeeding
It’s not known for sure if Fasenra is safe to use while you’re breastfeeding. Clinical trials of similar medications show that Fasenra may pass into breast milk. However, it’s not known if the drug would have any effect on a child who is breastfed.
Clinical trials
If you’re breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, talk with your doctor before taking Fasenra. They can review the benefits and possible risks of breastfeeding while using this drug. Your doctor can also recommend the safest ways to feed your child.
Fasenra precautions
Before taking Fasenra, talk with your doctor about your health history. Fasenra may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors affecting your health. These include:
Allergic reaction: If you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to Fasenra or any of its ingredients, you shouldn’t take Fasenra. Ask your doctor if they can recommend a different medication for you to use.
allergic reaction
Parasitic infections: Taking Fasenra may reduce your body’s ability to fight off parasitic infections. If you have a helminth infection (caused by a worm parasite), tell your doctor before taking Fasenra. They’ll prescribe medication to treat your infection before you start using Fasenra.
parasitic infections
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It’s not known if Fasenra is safe to use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. For more information, please see the “Fasenra and pregnancy” and “Fasenra and breastfeeding” sections above.
Fasenra and pregnancy
Fasenra and breastfeeding
Note: For more information about the potential negative effects of Fasenra, see the “Fasenra side effects” section above.
Fasenra side effects
Fasenra overdose
Do not use more Fasenra than your doctor recommends.
If you think you’ve taken too much of this drug, call your doctor. You can also call America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. But if your symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.
800-222-1222
online tool
Fasenra expiration, storage, and disposal
When you get Fasenra from the pharmacy, the pharmacist will add an expiration date to the label on the bottle. This date is typically 1 year from the date they dispensed the medication.
The expiration date helps guarantee that the medication is effective during this time. The current stance of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is to avoid using expired medications. If you have unused medication that has gone past the expiration date, ask your pharmacist how to correctly dispose of it.
current stance
How long a medication remains good can depend on many factors, including how and where you store the medication.
You should store Fasenra autoinjector pens in a refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). If needed, you can keep the drug at room temperature for up to 14 days. But if you don’t use the Fasenra pens within that time frame, you must dispose of them.
Keep Fasenra inside its original package and protect the autoinjector pens from light. Don’t shake, freeze, or expose Fasenra to heat.
If you no longer need to take Fasenra and have leftover medication, it’s important to dispose of it safely. This helps prevent others, including children and pets, from taking the drug by accident. It also helps keep the drug from harming the environment.
After using a Fasenra autoinjector pen, be sure to put it in your sharps disposal container.
The FDA website provides several useful tips on medication disposal. You can also ask your pharmacist for information on how to dispose of your medication.
FDA website
Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.