FASENRA Gets Approved in China for Patients with Severe Eosinophilic Asthma

Introduction

FASENRA, a maintenance treatment for severe eosinophilic asthma, has been approved by China's National Medical Products Association (NMPA). This article explores the approval, usage, and benefits of FASENRA for managing severe eosinophilic asthma.

What is FASENRA?

FASENRA (benralizumab) is a monoclonal antibody that binds to the interleukin-5 (IL-5) receptor, a protein on the surface of eosinophils. Eosinophils are white blood cells that play a role in the inflammatory response. By targeting and removing eosinophils, FASENRA can potentially reduce airway inflammation and improve asthma control.

Mechanism of Action

FASENRA works by binding to the IL-5 receptor on eosinophils, preventing IL-5 from binding to the receptor and activating the eosinophils. This inhibits eosinophil activation, maturation, and migration, reducing their numbers in the airways and mitigating their pro-inflammatory effects.

Approval and Usage

FASENRA has been approved in China for the maintenance treatment of severe eosinophilic asthma in patients aged 6 years and older. It is an add-on therapy to other asthma medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and long-acting beta-agonists (LABAs).

Benefits of FASENRA

FASENRA has shown significant benefits in clinical trials for patients with severe eosinophilic asthma:

• Reduced asthma exacerbations: FASENRA has been shown to reduce the frequency of asthma exacerbations by up to 50% compared to placebo.
• Improved lung function: FASENRA can improve lung function, as measured by forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma.
• Reduced oral steroid use: FASENRA can reduce the need for oral corticosteroids in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma, which can have potential side effects.

Conclusion

FASENRA's approval in China provides a significant treatment option for patients with severe eosinophilic asthma. By targeting and removing eosinophils, FASENRA effectively reduces airway inflammation, improves asthma control, and reduces the risk of exacerbations. As a biologic treatment specifically approved for eosinophilic asthma, FASENRA offers hope for improved outcomes and quality of life for patients living with this condition.