A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Fasenra is a prescription medication used for treating eosinophilic asthma, a condition characterized by activated white blood cells (eosinophils) causing inflammation in the airways leading to the lungs. Benralizumab is a biologic medication that functions by attaching to the interleukin-5 receptor on eosinophils, signaling the body’s immune system to target and eliminate these cells. This medication is administered via injection and can be self-administered using the pre-filled autoinjector pen. Purchasing Fasenra from Canada through Canpharm offers the benefit of obtaining it at the lowest cost.
Eosinophilic asthma is a subtype of asthma induced by elevated levels of a type of white blood cell called eosinophils. This condition is relatively rare, affecting only about 5% of adults with asthma. The eosinophils contribute to airway inflammation and can also cause constriction in the sinuses and nasal passages. Individuals typically develop eosinophilic asthma between the ages of 25 and 35. It is common for people with this condition to experience greater difficulty in managing allergy symptoms.
Fact Table | |
---|---|
Formula | C6492H10060N1724O2028S42 |
License | US DailyMed, EU EMA |
Bioavailability | 58.9% |
Legal status | Rx-Only |
Chemical Name | Benralizumab |
Elimination half-life | 3.54 days |
Dosage (Strength) | 30mg/mL (single-dose prefilled syringe or autoinjector pen) |
Pregnancy | Consult Doctor |
Brands | Fasenra |
Protein binding | Unknown |
PubChem CID | Not available because this is not a discrete structure |
MedlinePlus | a618002 |
ChEBI | Not Assigned |
ATC code | R03DX10 |
DrugBank | DB12023 |
KEGG | D09874 |
Routes of administration | Subcutaneous |
General:
Fasenra injections are to be administered once every 8 weeks.
The medication can be self-administered or administered by a healthcare professional using the pre-filled syringe.
Preparation:
Allow the Fasenra pen to warm to room temperature for 30 minutes prior to injection.
The Fasenra pen should be used within 14 days after being removed from the refrigerator.
Use the viewing window on the pen to ensure the medication is clear and colorless before injecting.
The injection site can be the upper thigh, abdomen (excluding a 2-inch radius around the navel), or the back of the upper arms.
Administration:
Remove the cap from the pen and retain it to cover the needle post-injection.
Pinch the skin at the injection site to form a firm surface.
Place the needle guard of the Fasenra pen flat against the skin at a 90-degree angle.
Press down firmly and listen for an audible ‘click’, indicating the start of the injection.
Hold for approximately 15 seconds until a second click signals the completion of the injection.
The active ingredient in Fasenra is Benralizumab.
Fasenra is suitable for individuals aged 12 and older.
Inform your doctor of any oral or inhaled corticosteroid medications or existing parasitic (helminth) infections before starting Fasenra.
Do not abruptly discontinue the medication due to the risk of adrenal crisis. Stopping Fasenra should be done according to a schedule determined by a healthcare provider.
Store Fasenra in a refrigerator at temperatures between 36°F and 46°F. Do not freeze.
Fasenra can be stored at room temperature (up to 77°F) for a maximum of 14 days.
No significant drug interaction risks have been established between Fasenra and other prescription or over-the-counter medications. However, it is always advisable to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking before receiving a prescription and purchasing Fasenra online.
Possible side effects of Fasenra include injection site pain, headache, mild fever, sore throat, or drug hypersensitivity. If side effects occur, consider discontinuing use and consulting a doctor to discuss alternative treatments for eosinophilic asthma.
What is Fasenra?
Fasenra is a monoclonal antibody that reduces eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, to help control severe asthma in adults and children aged 12 and older.
What are the warnings before taking Fasenra?
Inform your doctor about any medical conditions, allergies, medications, and if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before receiving Fasenra.
Who should not take Fasenra?
Those allergic to benralizumab, with a history of parasite infections, using oral/inhaled steroids, and children under 12 should avoid Fasenra. It may not be safe during breastfeeding.
How is Fasenra administered?
Fasenra is injected under the skin every 4 weeks for the first 3 doses, then every 8 weeks. It comes in a prefilled syringe or autoinjector.
What is the dosage of Fasenra?
The usual dose for adults and children 12 and older is 30 mg subcutaneously, initially every 4 weeks, then every 8 weeks.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a Fasenra injection, contact your doctor for instructions.
What happens in case of an overdose?
Overdose is unlikely as Fasenra is administered by a healthcare professional in a medical setting.
Are there any restrictions while receiving Fasenra?
Follow your doctor's advice regarding any food, beverage, or activity restrictions.
What are the side effects of Fasenra?
Possible side effects include allergic reactions, new or worsening asthma symptoms, sore throat, and headaches.
Does Fasenra interact with other drugs?
Fasenra may interact with other prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all your current medicines.