Dupixent (dupilumab) is a prescription medication used to treat certain inflammatory conditions, such as eczema, asthma, and chronic sinusitis. It comes as a prefilled syringe or pen for injection under the skin.
Dupixent is approved to treat the following conditions in certain situations:
- Atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults and children ages 6 months and older.
- Asthma in adults and children ages 6 years and older.
- Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps in adults and children ages 12 years and older.
- Eosinophilic esophagitis in adults and children ages 1 year and older.
- Prurigo nodularis (a skin condition) in adults.
- Eosinophilic COPD (a type of lung disease) in adults.
How Does Dupixent Work?
Dupixent is a monoclonal antibody, a type of biologic drug made from living cells. It works by targeting specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation.
What Conditions Does Dupixent Treat?
1. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
- Dupixent is used for moderate to severe eczema in adults and children ages 6 months and older.
- It’s prescribed when topical treatments (applied to the skin) don’t work well or can’t be used.
- Symptoms include dry, itchy skin and rashes.
2. Asthma
- Dupixent is used as an add-on treatment for certain types of asthma in adults and children ages 6 years and older.
- It’s prescribed for eosinophilic asthma (a type linked to high levels of white blood cells) or asthma that requires oral steroids.
- It’s not used to treat asthma attacks.
3. Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps
- Dupixent is used for chronic sinus inflammation with nasal polyps in adults and children ages 12 years and older.
- It’s prescribed when other treatments don’t control symptoms well.
- Symptoms include a stuffy or runny nose, facial pain, and reduced sense of smell.
4. Eosinophilic Esophagitis
- Dupixent is used for this condition in adults and children ages 1 year and older.
- It reduces inflammation in the esophagus, which can cause difficulty swallowing, heartburn, and abdominal pain.
5. Prurigo Nodularis
- Dupixent is used for this skin condition in adults.
- It helps reduce itchy, hard bumps on the skin that can affect quality of life.
6. Eosinophilic COPD
- Dupixent is used for this type of chronic lung disease in adults.
- It helps reduce inflammation in the airways, making breathing easier.
How is Dupixent Used?
- Dupixent is given as an injection under the skin.
- The first dose is usually given at a doctor’s office. After that, you or a caregiver can learn to inject it at home.
- The dosage and frequency depend on the condition being treated and your age.
What Are the Side Effects of Dupixent?
Common Side Effects
- Injection site reactions (redness, pain, or swelling).
- Sore throat.
- Cold sores.
- Eye problems (e.g., pink eye).
- Joint pain.
- Trouble sleeping.
Serious Side Effects
- Vasculitis (swelling of blood vessels) in people with asthma who stop steroid medications.
- Eye problems (e.g., corneal ulcers).
- Allergic reactions (rare but serious).
If you experience serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
What Should I Know Before Using Dupixent?
Interactions
- Dupixent is not known to interact with other medications, supplements, or alcohol.
- However, always tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you’re taking.
Vaccines
- Avoid live vaccines (e.g., measles, chickenpox) while using Dupixent.
- Talk to your doctor before getting any vaccines.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- If you’re pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using Dupixent.
Warnings
- Tell your doctor if you have a history of joint pain, eye problems, or parasitic infections.
How Much Does Dupixent Cost?
- Dupixent can cost 230to334 per injection.
- Most people need 20 to 30 injections per year, so the total cost can add up.
- Medicare and some insurance plans may cover part of the cost.
- The manufacturer offers a copay card to help reduce costs for eligible patients.
Alternatives to Dupixent
Depending on your condition, your doctor may recommend other treatments, such as:
- Topical corticosteroids for eczema.
- Inhaled medications for asthma.
- Nasal sprays for chronic sinusitis.
- Oral steroids for eosinophilic esophagitis.
Key Takeaways
- Dupixent is a biologic medication used to treat inflammatory conditions like eczema, asthma, and chronic sinusitis.
- It’s given as an injection under the skin and works by reducing inflammation.
- Common side effects include injection site reactions and eye problems.
- Dupixent can be expensive, but financial assistance programs may help.
If you think Dupixent might be right for you, talk to your doctor about its benefits and risks.