Asthma Rx Approved for Home Use

An asthma medication that once could only be given at a doctor's office can now be given at home.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Fasenra (benralizumab) to treat asthma in children and adults 12 years old and older. This medication is to be given with other asthma medications in those whose current medications are not working for them.

The FDA also approved this medication to prevent severe asthma attacks.

Asthma affects more than 25 million Americans. Around 1 in 13 people has asthma.

Benralizumab was approved in 2017 but was only to be given in a doctor's office. After this new approval, however, this medication can be given at home.

This medication is to be injected under the fatty layer of the skin. Do not inject this medication unless your health care provider has taught you how to do so.

The dosing schedule is every four weeks (for the first three doses). After that, the medication is to be given every eight weeks.

Common side effects of benralizumab included headache and sore throat.

Speak with your health care provider if you have any questions about asthma or asthma treatment options.

Written by Anyssa Garza, PharmD, BCMAS