Biologics

Biologic medications are drugs that target specific parts of your immune system to treat diseases.

If you have a condition like urticaria, nasal polyps or difficult to control asthma, biologics can make a big difference. They can ease inflammation in your body, reduce disease complications, and improve your quality of life.

What Are Biologic Drugs?

Biologics, also called monoclonal antibodies, are a relatively new class of medications for the treatment of a wide variety of medical conditions.

Biologics are often referred to as “magic bullets” because they are each designed to target a very specific molecule in the human body and prevent it from functioning. By targeting these specific molecules we can control a problem much more effectively. This makes these medications extremely powerful and also greatly reduces the risk of side effects from the treatment.

Call our Biologics Department

Biologics started appearing in the Allergy world around 2000 for asthma and more recently have been developed for hives, nasal polyps and eczema. They are also being used by other specialists for the treatment of conditions like psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, cancers and migraines just to name a few.

These incredibly exciting new medications have the potential to revolutionize the way we treat some of our most bothersome and frustrating allergic conditions.

There are currently six biologic medications being used for allergic conditions. All are indicated for the treatment of asthma with a few having additional benefits as well. The current medications are given as shots (except for one which is given as an intravenous infusion) with the hope that oral versions of an effective biologic will be developed in the near future.

Which Biologics are available at STAAMP?

Xolair (omalizumab)

Blocks the IgE antibody responsible for allergic sensitivities. It is given as a shot under the skin and is used to treat asthma, hives and nasal polyps.

Nucala (mepolizumab)

Blocks the eosinophil cell which contributes to allergic diseases. It is given as a shot under the skin and is used to treat asthma, hypereosinophilic syndrome and nasal polyps.

Fasenra (benralizumab)

Also blocks the eosinophil cell which contributes to allergic diseases. It is given as a shot under the skin and is used to treat asthma.

Dupixent (dupilumab)

Blocks several inflammatory chemicals which contribute to allergic diseases. It is given as a shot under the skin and is used to treat asthma, atopic dermatitis and nasal polyps.

Tezspire (tezepelumab)

Also blocks a key inflammatory chemical which contributes allergic diseases. It is given as a shot under the skin and is used to treat asthma.

Cinqair (reslizumab)

Blocks the eosinophil cell which contributes to allergic diseases. It is administered as an intravenous infusion and is used to treat asthma.

In order to qualify for these more advanced medications certain requirements must be met. You must have tried and failed standard therapy for your allergic condition. Next most of these agents require a blood test to determine which product is the best option for your situation. Finally the medication must be approved by your insurance which can take a few weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Biologics Treatment

What are the side effects of Biologic medications?

Like any other medication, Biologic drugs can have side effects that range from redness, swelling, mild pain and itchiness at the site of injection to very rare allergic reactions to the components of the drug. At STAAMP we provide administration of these medications in-office and always supervised by a physician to prevent serious reactions or complications from these medications.
Am I a candidate for Biologic medications?

Depending on the indication, you could be a candidate for Biologic medications if your condition has been difficult to control. Talk to your Doctor about the possibility of trying biologics on your next visit. Finding the appropriate treatment could improve your quality of life.
How does STAAMP help me with my Biologic medications?

We offer our patients a dedicated Biologics Analyst in-house, who can help you with the insurance approval process, scheduling your appointments, helping with your refills, and answering any questions you may have about your treatment. Assistance from our dedicated staff is always only a phone call away.