Three anti-IL-5 pathway directed therapies are approved for use in patients with severe eosinophilic asthma, however no head to head comparison data are available. Nucala (mepolizumab) and Cinqair (reslizumab) target IL-5 and Fasenra (benralizumab) binds to the IL-5 receptor. All 3 therapies have demonstrated statistically significant reductions in exacerbation rates. Additionally, Nucala and Fasenra reduced […]
Primatene Mist OTC gets FDA Approval
Primatene Mist OTC is making a comeback as it was recently FDA approved. Primatene Mist was taken off the market in the past because it contained CFC propellants that destroyed the ozone layer, we discussed this several years ago. Primatene Mist not likely to get FDA approval But the new version of Primatene Mist OTC […]
Alternaria mold is associated with Asthma
The importance of Alternaria mold exposure to allergic disease is underrecognized in urban communities compared to dust mites, cockroach and mouse exposure. Concentrations of Alternaria mold are higher in outdoor than in indoor air, however dampness, leaks can cause fungal penetration and growth indoors. Given the amount of time people spend indoors, indoor exposure may […]
Statins for Asthma, do they help?
Statins for asthma have been recently looked at as they have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Asthma is a respiratory syndrome defined by reversible airway obstruction and increased hyperreactivity of the airways. The estimated prevalence in some studies show asthma prevalence up to 13% worldwide. Statins are prescribed for elevated cholesterol and prevention of cardiovascular disease. […]
Tralokinumab for Asthma
Tralokinumab is an IL-13 neutralizing monoclonal antibody being investigated for severe asthma. The success of neutralization of IL-5 for the treatment of severe eosinophilic asthma has increased investigation into the therapeutic potential of other type 2 cytokines, including IL-13. 3 recent trials have been conducted to assess the efficacy of tralokinumab, an IL-13 neutralizing mAb, […]
Inhaled Triple Therapy for Respiratory Disease
Inhaled triple therapy is being recommended for patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) as a step up therapy. Inhaled triple therapy consists of 3 ingredients; Inhaled corticosteroids Long acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMA) Long acting Beta agonists (LABAs) This is considered a step up therapy for patients with frequent exacerbations. Two recent studies were […]
Steroids for Asthma Exacerbations and SMART Therapy
Steroids for asthma exacerbations is commonly used by doctors. Asthma is characterized by many patients with recurrent exacerbations. Asthma exacerbations fill emergency rooms and are a major cause of hospitalizations. In the ER the treatment consists primarily of albuterol and systemic steroids. Albuterol is readily given at home, but oral steroids such as prednisone or […]
Do antibiotics or acid suppressor meds in infants promote allergy?
The use of antibiotics and acid suppressor medications can cause changes the gut flora. Changes in the microbes can increase the risk of allergic diseases. A recent study looked into the use of antibiotics or acid suppressive medications. Histamine 2 receptor antagonists, i.e. Zantac (ranitidine) or proton pump inhibitors, Prilosec (omeprazole), within the first 6 […]
Best and Worst Exercises for Asthma
As asthma specialists, we are often asked which sports are the best exercises for asthma? There are approximately 25 million Americans with asthma and exercise may cause no problems at all. But for some, it can trigger shortness of breath and other asthma symptoms. That doesn’t have to stop most people from exercising though, 1 […]
When is the best time to take an asthma controller inhaler?
With the advent of new asthma inhalers that require only daily dosing, a question often asked is, when is the best time to take an asthma controller inhaler? This blog specifically refers to asthma inhaled corticosteroid inhalers and not rescue or emergency inhalers (albuterol), which should be used as needed or whenever asthma symptoms occur. […]