Fasenra for nasal polyps is currently being studied as a future therapeutic option. Chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps is an inflammatory condition associated with symptoms that may be severe, including rhinorrhea, nasal blockage and congestion, loss of smell, facial pressure/pain. Nasal sprays have shown limited help and surgery only helps temporarily as many of them grow back.
Nasal polyps have a complex etiology, but studies have shown that type 2 allergic inflammation has a strong connection to it. Fasenra (benralizumab) is a humanized monoclonal antibody produced in Chinese hamster ovary cells. The antibody is directed against the alpha subunit of the IL-5 receptor which is primarily expressed on human eosinophils and basophils.
Fasenra (Benralizumab) for Severe Asthma
Fasenra for nasal polyps is currently being investigated, in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology a study published “Efficacy and safety of benralizumab in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps: A randomized, placebo-controlled trial”.
There are several other biological medications approved for nasal polyps:
Nucala also inhibits eosinophils in a slightly different way compared to Fasenra, so likely Fasenra will have the same indication soon.
The study overall showed that Fasenra significantly improved nasal polyps and nasal blockage compared to placebo at week 40. Fasenra improved Sinonasal Outcome Test 22 scores as well.
So when Fasenra (benralizumab), when added to standard of care therapy reduced Nasal Polyps, decreased nasal blockage, and reduced difficulty with sense of smell compared to place in patients.
With all of these options to treat nasal polyps in particular biologic agents, it can be difficult to ascertain which one will be best for patients. We discussed this in a previous post and will have more blog posts in the future as well.
Xolair, Dupixent or Nucala for Nasal Polyps?
Nasal Polyps Treatment; Past, Present and Future
Potential new Nasal Polyps Treatment option