What is Fasenra® (Benralizumab)?

Fasenra® is a biologic medication. Its generic name is benralizumab. It is part of a class of medications known as monoclonal antibodies.

Fasenra is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat severe eosinophilic asthma. It is given as an injection into the skin. Patients have the option of taking Fasenra in a doctor’s office or clinic, or self-administering it at home using a Fasenra pen.

Fasenra is designed to stop inflammation in the airways before it can start. The medication reduces the risk of asthma attacks, reduces airway inflammation, provides symptom relief, and aids in lung function improvement. It also reduces the need for oral corticosteroids.

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What is Fasenra used for?

Fasenra is indicated for the following medical conditions:

  • severe asthma with an eosinophilic phenotype for adults and children ages 6 years and older
  • eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) for adults ages 18 and older

How does Fasenra work?

Fasenra works by targeting and blocking a protein called interleukin-5 (IL-5). IL-5 binds to cell surface receptors involved in the production and activation of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell). Fasenra prevents IL-5 from binding and interacting with the receptors. This reduces the number of eosinophils in people with severe eosinophilic asthma.

The drug reduces underlying airway inflammation. Severe asthma patients see a significant reduction in symptoms.

Fasenra is an add-on maintenance treatment, meaning that it can be taken along with other prescribed asthma medications. People on Fasenra should continue taking their daily inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) or long-acting beta-agonists (LABA) as prescribed by their doctor. This drug combination can help optimize asthma control and improve respiratory function.

If you’re prescribed Fasenra, work together with your doctor on a treatment plan. Follow it closely, as the specific combination of medications you’re prescribed may vary based on the severity of your asthma. Regular appointments and communication with your doctor can ensure your treatment plan is effective.

Is Fasenra a biologic?

Yes, Fasenra is a biologic medication known as a monoclonal antibody. Biologic drugs are derived from living organisms such as human tissue or viruses. Biologics target specific cells, proteins and pathways in the immune system that lead to asthma symptoms. Fasenra prevents the development of eosinophils, a key cause of airway inflammation.

If Fasenra is taken at home, you may have to obtain it at a specialty pharmacy. A specialty pharmacy handles prescriptions for drugs that demand specialized storage, handling, and transportation.

Fasenra dosing

Fasenra treatment is given once every four weeks for the first three doses. Then you receive one injection once every 8 weeks.

The dosage is 30 mg for people weighing 77 pounds or more. It is 10 mg for children ages 6-11 weighing less that 77 pounds.

Fasenra injection

The Fasenra injection is typically administered under the skin in the upper arm, thigh or stomach. This way the medication is delivered in the tissue layer between the skin and the muscle.

Avoid injecting the biologic into the same site each time. This can cause sensitivity, pain and scarring.

You can choose to receive the medication at your doctor’s office or self-administer at home with the Fasenra pen. Your doctor can provide training on how to administer the Fasenra pen.

Fasenra pen

The Fasenra pen is a pre-filled auto-injector device that you can self-administer at home. Many people taking Fasenra at home feel this option offers greater convenience and a sense of empowerment. They can take the injection when they want, on their own schedule.

If you choose to self-administer with the Fasenra pen, it’s important to follow the specific instructions for taking the medication. Ask your doctor for training on how to correctly administer the Fasenra pen. Make sure you know the injection site and proper technique. Talk with your doctor regularly to ensure you are injecting it safely and effectively.

Fasenra ingredients

Active ingredient: benralizumab

Non-medicinal ingredients: L-histidine, L-histidine hydrochloride monohydrate, α,α-trehalose dihydrate, polysorbate 20, and water.

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Fasenra side effects

Side effects of Fasenra can be mild or severe. What are the most common side effects?

  • Headache
  • Fever
  • Sore throat
  • Hives on the skin
  • Sore throat
  • Nasal congestion
  • Breathing problems
  • Tender, swollen glands in the neck
  • Voice changes
  • Injection site irritation

Some people may experience an allergic reaction soon after the Fasenra injection. Tell your healthcare provider or get emergency help right away if the allergic reaction is severe. This is anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:

  • hives on the skin
  • swelling of your face, mouth and/or tongue
  • breathing problems
  • nausea, abdominal cramps or vomiting
  • low blood pressure
  • fainting, dizziness, feeling lightheaded

If you take Fasenra at home, you will need a prescription for epinephrine. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis. Take it at the first sign of symptoms.

Before using Fasenra, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions. Provide a list of any other medications you’re taking that could cause drug interactions. Do not stop taking other asthma medicines unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.

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How much does Fasenra cost?

Biologics are expensive medications due to their complex production process. The list price for Fasenra is $4,895.74 per 30 mg without insurance. Most patients do not pay the list price. The actual cost will vary based on your insurance coverage.

Check your health insurance plan to see if you’re covered for Fasenra. If your insurance covers Fasenra, the Fasenra 360 Savings Program will cover any out-of-pocket costs up to $13,000 per calendar year. These out-of-pocket costs may include the cost of the product itself, the cost of the injection, and injection training.

If you are eligible for the Fasenra 360 Savings Program, you may pay as little as $0 for Fasenra.

Does Medicare cover Fasenra? Yes. About 80% of Medicare prescription drug plans cover Fasenra. If you have traditional Medicare Part B without supplemental insurance, you will likely pay about 20% of the cost provided Fasenra is administered at a doctors’ office or clinic. People with Medicare Advantage plans may see additional savings, with the average out-of-pocket cost at $90 per dose. Note: your doctor may be required to provide prior authorization for Fasenra as part of Medicare coverage.

For people on Medicaid, the average out-of-pocket cost ranges from $2-$9 per dose. Some states may offer lower copays or eliminate the copay altogether.

Charitable organizations such as The Assistance Fund, Inc., Patient Advocate Foundation and The HealthWell Foundation are dedicated to offering financial support to patients with specific medical conditions, irrespective of their chosen treatment. People with commercial or public insurance, including those under Medicare and Medicaid, can reach out directly to these foundations for financial assistance.

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