How Fasenra Works for Severe Asthma Patients

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and for some, the symptoms are severe and difficult to manage with standard therapies. Severe asthma can lead to frequent flare-ups, hospital visits, and a diminished quality of life. In recent years, new biologic treatments have emerged to provide relief to those struggling with uncontrolled asthma. One of these treatments is Fasenra, a targeted therapy designed specifically for patients with severe eosinophilic asthma.

This article explains how Fasenra works for asthma, what patients can expect from treatment, potential Fasenra side effects, and important information about Fasenra dosing and administration.

Understanding Severe Eosinophilic Asthma

Asthma occurs when the airways become inflamed and narrowed, making it hard to breathe. In severe eosinophilic asthma, a high number of eosinophils—white blood cells involved in immune response—cause persistent inflammation in the lungs. This leads to frequent asthma attacks, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.

Traditional inhalers and corticosteroids may not provide sufficient control for patients with this condition. That’s where biologics like Fasenra for asthma come in.

What Is Fasenra?

Fasenra (benralizumab) is a monoclonal antibody designed to reduce the number of eosinophils in the blood and airways. It is administered as a Fasenra injection and specifically targets the interleukin-5 receptor (IL-5Rα) on eosinophils. By binding to this receptor, Fasenra attracts natural killer cells that directly deplete eosinophils, helping reduce inflammation in the lungs.

This unique mechanism makes Fasenra one of the most effective treatments for patients whose asthma is driven by eosinophilic inflammation.

How Fasenra Works for Severe Asthma Patients

Fasenra works by disrupting the inflammatory process that drives severe asthma symptoms:

1. Targeting Eosinophils:

Eosinophils are a key cause of airway inflammation. Fasenra directly attaches to IL-5 receptors on eosinophils.

2. Reducing Inflammation:

Once attached, it activates natural killer cells, which eliminate eosinophils from the bloodstream and airways.

3. Improved Breathing:

With fewer eosinophils present, the airways remain more open, reducing flare-ups, coughing, and wheezing.

4. Long-Term Benefits:

Many patients report fewer asthma exacerbations, reduced hospital visits, and improved lung function over time.

Clinical studies have shown that patients using Fasenra for asthma experienced significant reductions in the frequency of severe asthma attacks compared to standard treatments alone.

Fasenra Dosing and Administration

Fasenra is not taken daily like an inhaler. Instead, it is given as a subcutaneous Fasenra injection (under the skin).

• Initial Fasenra Dose: Patients receive one injection every 4 weeks for the first 3 doses.
• Maintenance Dosing: After the initial phase, injections are given once every 8 weeks.

This convenient Fasenra dosing schedule makes it easier for patients to maintain treatment compared to other biologics that require more frequent administration.

Injections are usually administered by a healthcare professional, although some patients may be trained to self-administer at home with a prefilled syringe or autoinjector.

Fasenra Side Effects

Like any medication, Fasenra may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Common Fasenra side effects include:

• Headache
• Sore throat
• Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)
• Fever or flu-like symptoms
• Rare but serious side effects may include:
• Allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
• Hypersensitivity reactions

Most side effects are mild and manageable, but patients should always report new or worsening symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Who Can Benefit from Fasenra?

Fasenra is approved for patients 12 years and older who have severe eosinophilic asthma that remains uncontrolled despite high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and other long-term treatments.

It is not meant for sudden asthma attacks or as a rescue inhaler replacement. Instead, it is part of a long-term asthma management plan.

Patients with frequent hospitalizations, persistent symptoms, or elevated eosinophil counts in blood tests are often considered candidates for Fasenra for asthma therapy.

Advantages of Fasenra for Asthma Patients

1. Less Frequent Dosing: Convenient dosing every 8 weeks after initial therapy.
2. Targeted Treatment: Works directly on eosinophils, unlike broad steroids.
3. Reduced Flare-Ups: Proven to cut down asthma exacerbations significantly.
4. Improved Quality of Life: Patients often report better breathing, reduced emergency visits, and greater daily activity levels.

Considerations Before Starting Fasenra

Before beginning treatment, patients should discuss the following with their doctor:

• Any history of allergic reactions to biologics.
• Other medical conditions or ongoing treatments.
• Potential interaction with vaccines or immune-related therapies.
• Cost and insurance coverage, as biologic therapies can be expensive.

Conclusion

Severe eosinophilic asthma can be overwhelming and life-limiting, but treatments like Fasenra for asthma provide new hope. By targeting eosinophils directly, Fasenra reduces airway inflammation, helps prevent flare-ups, and improves overall lung function. With its convenient Fasenra dosing schedule and proven effectiveness, it has become a leading therapy for patients struggling with uncontrolled asthma. However, like all medications, it comes with potential Fasenra side effects and should only be used under a doctor’s guidance. Patients considering this therapy should consult their healthcare provider to determine if Fasenra injection is the right choice for them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Fasenra used for?

Fasenra is used to treat severe eosinophilic asthma in patients who do not respond well to traditional inhalers and corticosteroids.

2. How is Fasenra given?

Fasenra is given as a subcutaneous injection every 4 weeks for the first 3 doses, then once every 8 weeks.

3. Can I self-administer Fasenra?

Yes. Some patients may self-inject Fasenra at home with proper training, using prefilled syringes or autoinjectors.

4. What are the common Fasenra side effects?

Common side effects include headache, sore throat, fever, and injection site reactions. Rarely, serious allergic reactions may occur.

5. How long does it take for Fasenra to work?

Many patients notice improvements within a few weeks, but full benefits may take several months of consistent treatment.

 

Better breathing starts with Fasenra. Visit our website https://americaninfusioncare.com/treatment-and-care/available-therapies/ now or call us at +1 832-447-6454 to explore your options.