Key facts about Fasenra
What is Fasenra?
Fasenra is the brand name for benralizumab and is available as a subcutaneous injection.
What dosages is Fasenra available in?
Fasenra is available as a 30 mg/mL solution in a single-dose prefilled syringe.
What is Fasenra used for?
Fasenra is an interleukin antagonist that is used as an add-on treatment for severe eosinophilic asthma in people 12 years and older.
How does Fasenra work?
Fasenra is an interleukin antagonist. It blocks interleukin-5 (IL-5), a protein that normally makes white blood cells called eosinophils. Having high levels of eosinophils in the body can lead to inflammation, which plays a role in asthma. While the exact way Fasenra works to treat asthma isn’t fully understood, it’s known that the medication reduces the level of eosinophils in the body. This is thought to lessen inflammation in the lungs, which helps to ease symptoms of severe asthma.
How do I take Fasenra?
The typical starting dose of Fasenra is 30 mg injected under the skin every month for the first 3 months. After that, the typical maintenance dose is 30 mg injected under the skin every 2 months.
Is it safe for me to take Fasenra?
Fasenra is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Fasenra Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Fasenra:
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Injection site reaction (e.g., pain, redness, itching, raised skin)
Fasenra Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Fasenra. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Serious allergic reactions: trouble breathing; rash; fever; swelling in your face, lips, or tongue; fast heartbeat, nausea, vomiting
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Fasenra
There are no major drug interactions listed for Fasenra. However, always let your physician and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking.
Who makes Fasenra?
AstraZeneca
Is Fasenra safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Fasenra will harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant during your treatment with Fasenra.
