Name of the Procedure:

Injection, benralizumab, 1 mg (C9466):

• Common Name: Benralizumab Injection
• Technical/Medical Term: Anti-IL-5 Receptor Monoclonal Antibody Injection

Summary

Benralizumab injection is a medical procedure where a medication is administered to help manage severe asthma and other conditions characterized by high levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. The medication works by targeting and reducing eosinophils to help control symptoms and improve breathing.

Purpose

• Medical Conditions Addressed: Severe eosinophilic asthma, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), and elevated eosinophil-associated disorders.
• Goals and Outcomes: The primary objective is to reduce the number of eosinophils in the blood, thereby decreasing inflammation and improving asthma control. This should result in fewer asthma attacks, better lung function, and improved overall quality of life.

Indications

• Episodes of severe asthma not adequately controlled with standard treatments.
• Diagnosis of asthma with elevated blood eosinophil levels.
• Symptoms may include frequent asthma attacks, difficulty breathing, and increased mucus production.

Preparation

• Pre-Procedure Instructions: Patients may be advised to continue taking their usual asthma medications and should inform their healthcare provider of any other medications they are taking.
• Diagnostic Tests: A blood test may be required to measure eosinophil levels, along with a thorough medical history and physical examination.

Procedure Description

1. Location: The injection site, typically the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen, is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
2. Injection: Benralizumab is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) using a pre-filled syringe.
3. Tools/Equipment: Pre-filled syringe with benralizumab, antiseptic wipes, and gloves.
4. Anesthesia/Sedation: Not typically required; the procedure is usually well-tolerated with minimal discomfort.

Duration

• The procedure itself takes approximately 5-10 minutes.

Setting

• This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or hospital setting that is equipped for administering injections.

Personnel

• Typically administered by a nurse or trained healthcare provider under the supervision of a physician.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site.
• Rare Risks: Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), headache, fever, and increased risk of infection.
• Management: Immediate medical attention for severe reactions; over-the-counter pain relief for minor side effects.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Improved asthma control, fewer asthma attacks, reduced need for oral corticosteroids, better overall lung function.
• Timeline: Benefits may be noticed within a few days to weeks, with maximum improvement typically seen after several injections.

Recovery

• Post-Procedure Care: Patients can resume normal activities immediately but should monitor the injection site for any signs of infection or adverse reactions.
• Recovery Time: Virtually no downtime; patients can typically return to normal activities right away.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor the patient's response to treatment and adjust dosage if necessary.

Alternatives

• Other Treatments: Corticosteroids, long-acting beta-agonists, leukotriene modifiers, and other biologics such as mepolizumab and reslizumab.
• Pros and Cons: Alternatives may vary in effectiveness and side effect profiles; benralizumab is specifically beneficial for those with elevated eosinophil levels and may offer fewer side effects compared to long-term steroid use.

Patient Experience

• During the Procedure: Patients might feel a mild prick or sting at the time of the injection.
• After the Procedure: Possible minor soreness at the injection site, which usually resolves quickly. Pain management can include mild analgesics if needed.
• Comfort Measures: Patients are encouraged to relax during the procedure, and ice packs may be applied to the injection site to reduce discomfort afterward.