New injectable asthma medications (omalizumab, mepolizumab, reslizumab, benralizumab, and dupilumab) target different molecules and help patients who still have problems even though they are using other inhalers. Learn who might be helped and about possible side effects.
Asthma is a complex disease. Many patients are able to control asthma with inhaler therapy. But some patients with severe asthma have episodes of frequent symptoms and episodes where the asthma gets much worse even when they use more than one inhaler. Now there are new options called biologic therapy to help patients with severe asthma. Biologic therapies offer new ways of treatment because they target different molecules in the body that contribute to asthma.
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Xolair® (omalizumab)
Nucala® (mepolizumab)
Cinqair® (reslizumab)
Fasenra® (benralizumab)
Dupixent® (dupilumab)
Your doctor will decide if you would benefit from any of these therapies based on your symptoms, the medications you are already on, and your blood test results. These drugs are given in an infusion center.
Your doctor’s office will work with your insurance company before starting treatment to make sure everything is approved. Many pharmaceutical companies also have programs to help patients afford these treatments.
Yes! It is very important that you continue to take all your other asthma medications and inhalers. Your doctor will tell you if you can decrease the dose of any of your other inhalers over time if your asthma is under good control.
Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 03/14/2019.
Learn more about our editorial process.
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy