DUPIXENT
14 Aug 2019
Generic Name : DUPILUMAB
ABSTRACT –
Dupixent drug is used to treat patients suffering from a skin disease called Eczema. The drug is also used to treat symptoms like short breathing and wheezing which is seen in patients having asthma. The medication falls under the class of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. The drug works by preventing inflammation and swelling through blocking the different natural proteins present in the body.
DOSAGE –
- Dupixent has to be taken as directed by the doctors.
- Adult dosages:
- Pediatric dosages:
Eczema- Two 300 mg injections every other week
Asthma- Two 200 mg injections every other week
Eczema- Two 200 mg injections every other week
Asthma- Two 200 mg injections every other week
SIDE EFFECTS –
- Blistering or crusting of the skin
- Itchiness and redness in the eyes
- Excessive tearing
- Painful cold sores
- Blisters on the lips, nose, eyes, or genitals
- Reddening and scaly patches on skin
- Burning sensations
- Coldness
- Discoloration of the skin
- Infection followed with inflammation
- Lumps
- Numbness
- Rashes
- Scarring
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Ulceration
RARE SIDE EFFECTS:
- Burning or dry eyes
- Fever
- Pain
- Swelling of the eye or eyelid
DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Adalimumab
- Baricitinib
- Etanercept
- Golimumab
- Infliximab
- Leflunomide
- Natalizumab
- Siponimod
- Tofacitinib
Dupixent has major interactions with 27 different drugs.
MODERATE DRUG INTERACTIONS –
- Alefacept
- Canakinumab
- Denosumab
- Efalizumab
- Histoplasmin
- Omacetaxine
- Rilonacept
- Roflumilast
- Ustekinumab
- Warfarin
Dupixent has moderate interactions with 25 different drugs.
PRECAUTIONS –
- Pharmacist must be consulted before the consumption of this drug as it contains components and inactive ingredients which may lead to allergic reactions.
- Any medical history regarding certain type of infection called helminthes should be disclosed.
- Since this drug makes a person dizzy so activities like driving and others which need more attention should be avoided.
- Avoid close contact with people who recently got vaccine for flu.
PREGNANCY AND LACTATION WITH DUPIXENT:
- Use of Dupixent in pregnancy may be acceptable only if the benefits exceed the risks involved.
- Studies in animal pregnancy have shown adverse effects on fetus. But no adequate studies have been found in humans to access the damage involved.
- Do not nurse while on drug course, as this drug may transfer through breast milk and may harm a newborn.
WARNINGS –
- The drug should not be used in case of an asthma attack. Rescuer inhaler should be used in such cases.
- The drug should not be given to children who are younger than 12 years.
- Keep out of reach of children. In case of overdose, get medical help or contact a Poison Control Center immediately.