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Benralizumab Injection

Benralizumab is a medication that treats severe asthma. This condition causes your airways to narrow and swell and become blocked with excess mucus. A healthcare provider can give you this injection, or they’ll teach you how to give it to yourself at home. Take each dose of this medication at regular intervals as directed.

What is this medication?

BENRALIZUMAB (BEN ra LIZ oo mab) prevents the symptoms of asthma. It is prescribed when other asthma medications have not worked well enough. It works by decreasing inflammation of the airways, making it easier to breathe. Do not use it to treat a sudden asthma attack. It is a monoclonal antibody.

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This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fasenra

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Parasitic (helminth) infection
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to benralizumab, hamster proteins, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is injected under the skin. You will be taught how to prepare and give it. Take it as directed on the prescription label. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

If you use a pen, be sure to take off the outer needle cover before using the dose. It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.

A patient package insert for the product will be given with each prescription and refill. Be sure to read this information carefully each time. The sheet may change often.

This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.

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Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

If you give yourself this medication at home, and you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. Call your care team with questions.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. NEVER use this medication for an acute asthma attack. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Do not stop taking your other asthma medications unless instructed to do so by your care team.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions or angioedema—skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs, trouble swallowing or breathing

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Headache
  • Sore throat

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store in a refrigerator or at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F).

Refrigeration (preferred): Store in the refrigerator. Protect from light. Keep this drug in the original container until you are ready to take it. Throw away any unused drug after the expiration date.

Room Temperature: This drug may be stored at room temperature for up to 14 days. Keep this drug in the original container until you are ready to take it. If it is stored at room temperature, throw away any unused drug after 14 days or after it expires, whichever is first.

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To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, check with the label to see if the medication should be thrown in the garbage. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put in the trash.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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