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Has anyone taken Biologics?
I'm somewhat new to asthma and lung problems. In December, I had my first visit with a pulmonologist who prescribed a steroid inhaler and an Aerobika. They were helpful; however, there were still times when these did not work as well as I expected. Six months later, during my follow-up appointment, the pulmonologist added Singulair, which has also been helpful. He did mention he was considering prescribing a biologic.
I'm still having times when all of the previous treatments are not effective, and I'm going to the ER or urgent care for a breathing treatment and Prednisone; I'm probably going to be discussing biologics at my next appointment. If you have been prescribed biologics, please share your experiences.
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@jdwelch2025 @mth13 @ricktweld
I appreciate all of your responses. One question: If you were on Medicare when you were prescribed the biologic, do you recall whether it was billed through your Part D prescription plan or through the medical part of Medicare?
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1 Reaction@jdwelch2025 ditto what jd said. Make sure you have good insurance, because there is quite a “sticker shock” with Dupixent. As advertised, i was one of the lucky ones who felt results in 3 days. Might be worth trying yourself. Good luck!
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1 ReactionIn late onset asthma it is difficult to pinpoint cause, but high eosinophils were my major clue. If your blood work shows high eosinophils, Singulair ( Montelukast) is not appropriate since it raises them. I have been on NUCALA successfully for over two years to reduce my eosinophils. During a sinusitis flare this winter I was taking Allegra, Astepro, sinus rinses, and was prescribed a prednisone taper to reduce heavy, thick, pink tinged sinus discharge along with thick mucus in my lungs, along with reduced hearing from eustachian tube swelling. I stopped taking the Allegra and Astepto and gradually I recovered. I read in this Mayo site about Astepro (OTC generic) not being the same as the prescription azelastine and causing just these symptoms in some people. I know when we are in the middle of a flare we are likely to try whatever we can to get over it, but some of the over the counter drugs are not right for everyone. Read through the comments in this site for good information from others walking in your shoes. Best of luck zeroing in on the correct treatment for your condition. Like me you may never find out what causes it, but you can treat it successfully and get on with life.
MTH13
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2 ReactionsI started using Dupixent (a monoclonal antibody that is self injected every two weeks) last December. I’ve had no asthma episodes since, and no side effects. My asthma presents differently than yours, is more episodic and linked to sinus infections which I had gotten several times a year but only once since starting Dupixent and it did not lead to an asthma exacerbation. I also take Singulair and use Symbicort which I’ve used for years prior to starting Dupixent. I’m not sure I need all those drugs but hate to rock the boat for this year at least.
I think it is definitely worth considering trying a biologic. There are several different types of biologics and your doctor will know which one best suits your situation.
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