Nucala ^*

Nucala (mepolizumab) is mainly used as an add-on maintenance treatment for severe eosinophilic asthma in patients aged six and older. It helps prevent severe attacks when other medications are not enough. Nucala is also approved by the FDA to treat other eosinophil-driven conditions. These include Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA), Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES), and Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP) in adults.

Nucala can begin to reduce the high levels of eosinophils in your blood within the first few weeks of treatment. However, feeling the full benefits, such as fewer asthma attacks and improved breathing, may take several weeks or longer. Consistent use as prescribed by your doctor is key to achieving the best results. The response time can vary from person to person.

Nucala is not a rescue medicine, so you must not stop using your other prescribed asthma medicines, including your rescue inhaler. Nucala is an add-on therapy designed to work with your existing medications to control your asthma over the long term. You should only change your treatment plan, including stopping other medicines, if your doctor specifically tells you to do so.

Nucala requires consistent administration every four weeks for the best effect. If you miss a dose, you should call your doctor or pharmacist as soon as you remember. They will provide instructions on when to administer the next dose and how to adjust your schedule moving forward. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one you missed.

Nucala is given as a subcutaneous injection, which is an injection just under the skin of your thigh, abdomen, or upper arm. A healthcare professional can administer the shot. Alternatively, patients or their caregivers can be trained to inject Nucala at home using the pre-filled autoinjector or syringe. It is critical to receive proper training before attempting to self-inject this medication.

Nucala may cause some common and usually mild side effects. The most frequently reported ones in clinical trials include headache, back pain, and feeling tired (fatigue). Reactions at the injection site, such as pain, redness, swelling, or itching, are also common. If any of these side effects become bothersome or do not go away, you should speak with your healthcare provider.

Nucala can rarely cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These include serious allergic (hypersensitivity) reactions, such as anaphylaxis, which can cause swelling of the face and tongue or difficulty breathing. Another potential serious side effect is an increased risk of developing herpes zoster, also known as shingles. Your doctor can provide more information on how to recognize these signs.

Nucala may impact your immune system's response. You should talk to your healthcare provider before receiving any vaccines, especially live vaccines, while you are being treated with Nucala. It is generally recommended to ensure all your vaccinations are up-to-date before you begin your treatment. This helps ensure both your safety and the effectiveness of the vaccines.

Nucala is not known to have major interactions with most other common medications. However, it is still very important to be cautious. You should always provide your doctor and pharmacist with a complete list of all the prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking. This allows them to check for any potential issues before you start treatment.

Nucala is not a steroid. It is a type of biologic drug known as a monoclonal antibody. It works by targeting a specific protein in the immune system called IL-5. By doing this, it reduces the number of eosinophils that cause inflammation. For many patients, long-term use of Nucala can actually help reduce their need for oral corticosteroid medications.

Nucala should not be taken by anyone who has a known allergy or hypersensitivity to its active ingredient, mepolizumab, or any other components in the injection. This medication is also not suitable for treating a sudden, severe asthma attack (acute bronchospasm or status asthmaticus). You should discuss your full medical history with your doctor to ensure it is safe for you.

Nucala prefilled autoinjectors and syringes must be stored in the refrigerator, at a temperature between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C). Keep them in the original carton to protect the medicine from light. Do not freeze Nucala, and do not use it if it has been frozen. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 7 days if necessary.