Dupilumab - Medication Detail
Medication Type
Long-term Control
Generic Names
Dupilumab
Brand Names
Dupixent®
Description
An injection to treat moderate to severe, persistent asthma not controlled with other long-acting medications, such as inhaled glucocorticoids with a long-acting beta agonist. Or for the treatment of asthma with comorbid moderate to severe atopic dermatitis.
It works over a few months to prevent the body's reaction to allergens.
Delivery
Injection under the skin (subcutaneous)
Dosage
Adults and children ≥ 12 years
- Usual dose: 400 mg once (given as two 200 mg injections), followed by 200 mg every other week.
- Severe asthma dose and those with atopic dermatitis: 600 mg once (given as two 300 mg injections), followed by 300 mg every other week.
- Any dose > 300 mg should be divided into more than 1 injection site separated by > 1 inch.
Proper Use
Injection given into the fatty part of the skin on the thigh, lower abdomen, or upper arm every 2 weeks.
Precautions
- Do NOT use this medication to treat an asthma attack
- Allergic reactions to this medication have been reported
- Your doctor will tell you how long you need to stay after each injection
- Do not stop taking your other asthma medications or reduce their doses without your doctor’s approval
- Pregnant women should talk with their doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication
Common Interactions
This drug has no common drug interactions, but less common interactions exist.
This medication may enhance the adverse side effects of live vaccines.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your medications and health problems so they can look for any interactions.
Possible Side Effects
- Bruising, redness, pain, or irritation where the shot is given.
- Severe allergic reactions have been seen with this medication.
- Tell your doctor or get medical help if you notice any sign of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, trouble breathing, swelling of the mouth, face, lips tongue, or throat, feeling faint) or if you have a fever or joint pain.
Proper Storage
- This drug will be given to you in a hospital or doctor's office
- You will not store it at home