Biologics are powerful medications that are made up of tiny components, such as sugars, proteins, or DNA. These medications are derived from living cells and are used to prevent, treat, and cure human disease. At NEAAI, we offer biologics for chronic hives, eczema, and asthma.
Biologics for Asthma (Xolair, Dupixent, Nucala, Fasenra)
Asthma is a chronic disease in which the airways narrow and swell. Many patients with asthma control their symptoms by identifying and avoiding triggers, taking a daily inhaled or oral controller medication, or using a quick-relief inhaler when symptoms develop. For some asthma patients, these medications are not enough to control their symptoms.
Biologics have been approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe asthma. These powerful medications target a specific antibody, molecule, or cell involved in asthma to help decrease the frequency of asthma exacerbations. Other benefits include reduced asthma symptoms and reduced dosage of other controller medication.
The biologics we use to treat asthma include Xolair, Dupixent, Nucala, and Fasenra.
Biologics for Severe Eczema (Dupixent)
Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by patches of red, itchy skin. Standard treatment for eczema include over-the-counter remedies, prescription topical, and oral and injectable medications. While most of these treatments are helpful for many patients, some patients don’t see an improvement with their eczema symptoms.
If a patient’s eczema is not improving with standard treatments, biologics may be the next step for treating their eczema. Dupixent is the first biologic medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for adults and children aged 6 years and older with moderate to severe eczema.
The specific immune proteins that are involved in the inflammation that occurs with eczema include interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13). The biologic, Dupixent, blocks these immune proteins, slowing down the immune response and inflammation, resulting in a decrease of eczema symptoms.
Biologics for Severe Hives (Xolair)
Urticaria, also known as hives, is an outbreak of swollen, pale red bumps, or wheals on the skin. Hives appear on the skin either as a result of the body’s reaction to certain allergens, or for unknown reasons. The standard treatment for hives include antihistamines, H2 blockers, or PPIs (proton pump inhibitors). When this treatment option fails, severely affected patients may consider an immunobiologic.
Xolair is an injectable medication approved by the FDA to treat appropriate patients with chronic urticaria. This biologic has been shown to significantly reduce the number of hives as well as how much hives itch.
With allergy skin testing, patch testing, and/or blood testing, we can discover hidden triggers, confirm suspected triggers, and provide additional treatments, including biologics if appropriate for your condition. Contact Northeast Allergy, Asthma & Immunology today to schedule your appointment.
