Nucala Powder for Injection (Mepolizumab)
Nucala (Mepolizumab)
Nucala (Mepolizumab) is a revolutionary prescription drug that helps control severe asthma and prevent flare-ups in people aged 6 and up. It targets IL-5 (interleukin-5), a protein involved in the development, survival, and activation of eosinophils, which are white blood cells that can cause asthma inflammation. Nucala decreases eosinophil levels by suppressing IL-5, which helps to lessen asthma attacks and improve breathing.
Why Choose Nucala (Mepolizumab)?
- Reduces Asthma Attacks: Significantly lowers the frequency of severe asthma attacks.
- Improves Lung Function: Facilitates better breathing for a more active and fulfilling life.
- Tailored Treatment: Designed specifically for eosinophilic asthma, it addresses the underlying source of symptoms.
How to Use Nucala (Mepolizumab)?
- Nucala is normally given as a subcutaneous injection once every four weeks. The injections are administered by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital environment. In rare situations, and when appropriate, patients or their caregivers may be trained to administer Nucala injections at home.
- Continued Use: Even if you feel fine, you should have your Nucala injections on time. Skipping doses can diminish therapeutic efficacy.
- Concurrent Treatments: Continue to take your current asthma or condition-specific drugs as directed by your doctor. Nucala is an add-on treatment, not a substitute for other asthma drugs, particularly corticosteroids.
- Preparation for Injection: If you are instructed to give Nucala at home, make sure you know how to correctly prepare and inject the medication. Follow the directions that come with your medication carefully.
- Monitoring: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare practitioner are required to assess your reaction to Nucala and change your treatment plan as needed.
Important Safety Information about Nucala
- Allergic responses: Although uncommon, allergic responses to Nucala can occur. Symptoms may include hives, swelling of the face, lips, and throat, difficulty breathing, fainting, dizziness, and lightheadedness. If you encounter any of these symptoms, you should seek medical assistance immediately.
- Nucala may raise your risk of contracting some illnesses, including helminths (parasitic worms). Before beginning therapy, tell your doctor if you reside in or have traveled to locations where these illnesses are frequent, or if you have a history of such infections.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Provide your healthcare practitioner with your complete medical history, including any pre-existing conditions and whether you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare practitioner about all the medications you use, including prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals and supplements.
Fact Table
Facts | Details |
Generic Name | Mepolizumab |
Brand Name | Nucala |
FDA Approval Date | November 4, 2015, for severe eosinophilic asthma. Later approvals for additional indications. |
Indications | – Severe eosinophilic asthma in patients aged 6 years and older.<br>- Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES) for patients aged 12 years and older.<br>- Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) in adults. |
Administration Route | Subcutaneous injection |
Dosage Form | Lyophilized powder for reconstitution in a single-dose vial; pre-filled syringe. |
Recommended Dosage | 100 mg administered once every 4 weeks |
Mechanism of Action | Mepolizumab is an interleukin-5 antagonist. It works by binding to interleukin-5 (IL-5) and inhibits its interaction with the IL-5 receptor, thereby reducing the production and survival of eosinophils. |
Contraindications | Hypersensitivity to mepolizumab or any of its excipients. |
Common Side Effects | Headache, injection site reactions (pain, erythema, swelling), back pain, fatigue. |
Pregnancy Category | Data not available. Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should be advised of the potential benefits and risks of use during pregnancy. |
Lactation | There is no information on the presence of mepolizumab in human milk, the effects on the breastfed child, or the effects on milk production. |
Drug Interactions | There are no known significant drug interactions. However, patients should always inform their healthcare provider of all the medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. |
Storage Instructions | Store in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze. Keep the product in the original carton to protect from light until the time of use. |
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Nucala (Mepolizumab) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.
- Headache
- Injection site reactions (pain, erythema, swelling)
- Back pain
- Fatigue
If you experience any of these side effects or others, make sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.
How Can You Buy Nucala (Mepolizumab)?
You can order Nucala (Mepolizumab) using these methods on our website:
- Order Online
- Order by Phone
- Order by Fax
- Order your refills
Visit our How to order page.