FASENRA (Benralizumab)

What is this medication?

FASENRA (Benralizumab)
Anti-Asthmatic, Interleukin-5 Receptor Antagonist

FASENRA (Benralizumab) is indicated for the treatment of severe asthma.

What are the ingredients in this medication?

FASENRA
Medicinal ingredient:
Benralizumab
Non-medicinal ingredients:
L-histidine, L-histidine hydrochloride monohydrate, α,α-trehalose dihydrate, polysorbate 20 and water. Preservative-Free.

How does this medication work? 

FASENRA (Benralizumab) is a monoclonal monoclonal antibody (IgG1, kappa) that binds to the alpha subunit of the interleukin-5 receptor. IL-5 is the major cytokine responsible for the growth and differentiation, recruitment, activation, and survival of eosinophils (a cell type associated with inflammation and an important component in the pathogenesis of asthma). Benralizumab by inhibiting IL-5 signaling, reduces the production and survival of eosinophils and basophils through antibody dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity.

How should I take this medication? 

SQ: Inject 30mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks for the first 3 doses, then once every 8 weeks.

How to Take:  Prior to administration, allow syringe/autoinjector to warm at room temperature for ~30 minutes.  Administer the subcutaneous injection into the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen. Prefilled syringe should only be administered by a health care provider; autoinjector may be administered by patient or caregiver after proper training. Refer to the manufacturer’s labeling for additional administration instructions.

What should I watch for while using this medication? 

Before starting FASENRA (Benralizumab) make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take. Benralizumab should never be used for acute asthmatic symptoms or exacerbations.  Do not abruptly discontinue corticosteroids when initiating Benralizumab as they should be tapered off gradually if appropriate.

What size needle does this medication use?

FASENRA
Prefilled syringe: 29-gauge, 12.7 mm needle
Autoinjector: 29-gauge, 12.7 mm needle

What is the difference between a prefilled syringe and an autoinjector?

Both an autoinjector device and prefilled syringe are comparable with respect to ease of use, tolerability, and efficacy.  However the addition of an autoinjector to deliver a prefilled syringe can enhance patient safety.

What if I miss a dose?

If a dose is missed or you are unable to keep an appointment for one of the injections, the missed dose should be administered as soon as possible.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times. Store in a refrigerator (2°C - 8°C). FASENRA (Benralizumab) may be kept at room temperature up to 25°C for a maximum of 14 days. After removal from the refrigerator, Benralizumab must be used within 14 days or discarded. Store in the original package in order to protect from light. Do not freeze or expose to heat. Discard unused drug into sharps container. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date that is stated on the label.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Antibody development, headache, pharyngitis, fever.

Note this is not a complete list of side effects for FASENRA (Benralizumab), only common ones.