Benralizumab - Medication Detail
Medication Type
Generic Names
Benralizumab
Brand Names
Fasenra®
Description
This medicine is injected every 4 weeks as an add-on medication for controlling severe allergic asthma not well controlled with standard therapy such as inhaled glucocorticoid with a long-acting beta agonist).
It works over a few months to prevent the body’s reaction to allergens.
Delivery
Injection under the skin (subcutaneous)
Dosage
Adults and children ≥ 12 years
- The usual dose is 30 mg given as one injection under the skin every 4 weeks for the first 3 doses, then once every 8 weeks.
A minimum of 4 months of treatment is recommended to determine if the medication is working.
Proper Use
A shot given into the fatty part of the skin on the thigh, lower abdomen, or upper arm every 4-8 weeks.
Precautions
- Do NOT use this medication to treat an asthma attack
- Allergic reactions to this medication have been reported
- Your doctor will tell you how long you need to stay after each injection
- Do not stop taking your other asthma medications or reduce their doses without your doctor’s approval
- Pregnant women should talk with their doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication
Common Interactions
This drug has no common interactions, but less common interactions exist.
Possible Side Effects
- Bruising, redness, pain, or irritation where the shot is given
- Headache, throat/mouth pain, and fever
- Severe allergic reactions have been seen with this medication
- Tell your doctor or get medical help if you notice any sign of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swelling of the mouth, face, lips tongue, or throat, feeling faint) or if you have a fever or joint pain
Proper Storage
- This drug will be given to you in a hospital or doctor's office
- You will not store it at home.