Treatment for Severe Asthma | Biologics | Singapore General Hospital

Severe Asthma - Treatments

Treating severe asthma involves the use of biologics.

Biologics are relatively new medications that are not made from chemicals but are made from the cells of a living

organism, such as bacteria or mice.

Patients experiencing uncontrolled severe asthma, despite optimal daily preventer medications, may find biologics beneficial.

Preconditions Before Starting Biologics

Work with your healthcare provider to ensure that you:

You are taking your preventer medications as intended, and are using your inhaler devices correctly
You are avoiding triggers for your asthma, wherever possible
You do not have other medical condltions that are contributing to your poor asthma control

Benefits of Biologics

Reduce frequency of asthma attacks and symptoms
Reduce healthcare visits i.e hospital admission emergency room visits that require oral steroids
For patients on regular oral steroids, the dose required to control asthma may be reduced
Reduce the need for other add-on medications [and hence reduce side effects]
Fewer missed work/school days
Improve quality of life
Some blologics may even mprove lung function and other conditions which are caused by abnormal nflammatlon, similar to the asthma that is affecting you

Types of Biologics

In 2021, Health Sciences Authority in Singapore approved four biologics with more in development and clinical trials.

Omalizumab
Mepolizumab
Benralizumab
Dupilumab,

Choosing a Biologic

Different biologics target different inflammatary and allergic pathways in asthma. Your doctor conducts screening tests to determine the most suitable biologic targeting specific inflammatory and allergic pathways.

How are Biologics Administered?

Given through subcutaneous injections, biologics may be administered bi-weekly, monthly, or bi-monthly, depending on the specific biologic.

Monitoring for improvement may take up to six months, and treatment duration depends on the sustained response.

Side Effects of Biologic

While generally safe, common side effects include soreness at the injection site, headache, sore throat, and fatigue. Rarely, more severe side effects such as swelling of the eyes, hives, rashes, fainting or dizziness, and difficulty breathing may occur.