Are you curious about how biologic medications are transforming the treatment of asthma, eczema, allergies, and more?

Dr. Perdita Permaul joins Dr. Gupta and Kortney to discuss the available biologic medications for allergic conditions. We walk through the eight biologics currently available for allergic diseases, explaining how these medications target different parts of the immune system to treat allergic conditions more effectively than traditional medications.

Dr. Permaul explains how biologics have evolved since 2003 and how they are changing the way allergic conditions are treated. She also explains why some of the biologics treat multiple diseases, whereas some are only approved for one. 

• How biologics work for allergic conditions: We unpack how biologic medications target specific parts of the immune system, reducing inflammation and improving the quality of life for patients with allergic diseases.

Biologics Cheat Sheet

Below is a list of the 8 biologics discussed in this episode. We have briefly outlined their mechanism of action along with the approved conditions and ages the drug is available for presecription. 

Omalizumab (Xolair)

Xolair works by binding to IgE to prevent allergic reactions. It has since been approved for chronic hives, nasal polyps, and food allergies.

• Allergic asthma: 6+

Mepolizumab (Nucala)

Targets and blocks interleukin-5 (IL-5) play a key role in the activation and priming of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that causes inflammation in asthma.

• Eosinophilic Asthma: 6+

Reslizumab (Cinqair)

Targets and blocks interleukin-5 (IL-5).

• Eosinophilic asthma: 18+

Benralizumab (Fasenra)

Binds to the IL-5 receptor, preventing eosinophils from growing and causing inflammation.

• Eosinophilic asthma: 6+

Dupilumab (Dupixent)

Targets and blocks IL-4 and IL-13 to reduce inflammation

• Asthma: 6+

Tezepelumab (Tezspire)

Blocks thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP).

• Asthma: 12+

Tralokinumab (Adbry, Adtralza)

Targets and neutralizes interleukin-13 (IL-13).

• Atopic dermatitis: 12+

Lebrikizumab (Ebglyss)

Targets and neutralizes interleukin-13 (IL-13).

• Atopic dermatitis: 12+ (> 40 lbs)

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This podcast is made in partnership with The Allergy & Asthma Network. Thanks to Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring today’s episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any medical concerns.