Using the Fasenra Pen is easy once you have been properly trained. You can give yourself the injection at home following these simple steps:
- Step 1: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Step 2: Take the Fasenra Pen out of the fridge. Let it warm to room temperature for at least 30 minutes before use.
- Step 3: Choose an injection site (thigh, abdomen, or upper arm). Clean the skin with an alcohol wipe.
- Step 4: Remove the cap from the pen. Hold the pen like a pencil and press the end of the pen firmly against your skin.
- Step 5: Push the button on the pen to start the injection. You will feel a slight push as the medicine is injected.
- Step 6: After the injection, dispose of the pen safely in a sharps container.
- Step 7: Rotate injection sites to avoid irritation or soreness at the same spot.
It’s important to follow these steps carefully to ensure the correct and safe use of Fasenra Pen.
Fasenra Pen works by targeting eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that causes inflammation in the airways and contributes to asthma symptoms. By reducing the number of eosinophils, Fasenra helps to prevent asthma flare-ups, improving lung function and making it easier to breathe.
- Fasenra is a monoclonal antibody that attaches to eosinophils and reduces their number.
- It binds to the IL-5 receptor alpha on eosinophils, which triggers the body to eliminate these cells.
- By reducing inflammation, it helps the airways stay open, improving breathing and preventing asthma attacks.
In simple terms, Fasenra Pen helps reduce the number of harmful cells that cause asthma, making it easier to control the condition over time.
Like any medication, Fasenra Pen can cause side effects, but not everyone will experience them. Most side effects are mild, and serious side effects are rare.
Common side effects:
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Injection site reactions: redness, pain, swelling, or itching
Less common but serious side effects:
- Allergic reactions: rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, or tightness in the chest.
- Infections: Fasenra can weaken the immune system, making you more prone to infections like colds or flu.
- Low white blood cell count: This can increase your risk of infections.
If you notice any severe reactions, like difficulty breathing or swelling, seek immediate medical attention.
Before using Fasenra Pen, it’s important to consider some safety warnings and precautions.
- Not for emergency use: Fasenra is not a rescue treatment for sudden asthma attacks. Always have a fast-acting inhaler on hand.
- Tell your doctor if you have:
- Parasitic infections: Fasenra may make it harder for your body to fight infections.
- Allergic reactions to other biologic treatments or medications.
- Immune system problems or if you have a history of infections.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Fasenra should be used during pregnancy only if absolutely necessary. It’s not known if it is safe for breastfeeding, so consult your doctor first.
Vaccinations: Before getting any vaccines while using Fasenra, talk to your doctor to ensure it’s safe.
Following the correct dosage schedule for Fasenra Pen is important for managing your asthma effectively. Here’s the recommended dosing guide:
- Initial dose: 30 mg once every 4 weeks for the first 3 doses.
- Maintenance dose: After the initial doses, the dose is given every 8 weeks.
- Your doctor will help determine the right dosing schedule for your individual needs.
- Do not miss doses: If you miss a dose, consult your doctor about when to reschedule the next one.
Regular follow-ups with your doctor are important to ensure Fasenra is working as expected and to adjust your treatment if needed.
Fasenra Pen is available only with a doctor’s prescription. You will need to see your healthcare provider to determine if it is the right treatment for you.
- Your doctor will assess your asthma history, perform some tests, and consider your overall health before prescribing Fasenra Pen.
- Some insurance plans may cover the cost of Fasenra, but you should check with your provider to confirm.
If cost is a concern, there are patient assistance programs available that may help lower the cost of the medication.