Name of the Procedure:

Injection, reslizumab, 1 mg (C9481)

Summary

In layman's terms, this procedure involves administering an injection of reslizumab, a medication used to treat certain types of severe asthma by reducing inflammation and asthma attacks.

Purpose

The procedure targets severe asthma, particularly for patients whose condition is inadequately controlled with other treatments. The goal is to reduce the frequency of asthma attacks and improve overall lung function.

Indications

• Severe asthma not well-managed by other treatments.
• Elevated levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the blood.
• Frequent asthma attacks despite the use of high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and additional asthma medications.

Preparation

• No specific fasting is required.
• Patients should follow their current asthma medication regimen unless otherwise instructed.
• A blood test may be conducted to measure eosinophil levels before the first dose.

Procedure Description

1. The patient arrives at the clinic.
2. The healthcare provider prepares the reslizumab injection.
3. The medication is administered via intravenous (IV) infusion, typically into a vein in the arm.
4. The infusion usually takes about 20 to 50 minutes.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used:

• IV infusion equipment (needle, tubing, infusion pump).

Anesthesia or Sedation Details:

• No anesthesia or sedation is typically required for this procedure.

Duration

The actual injection process takes approximately 20 to 50 minutes, but patients may spend longer in the clinical setting for preparation and observation.

Setting

This procedure is performed in an outpatient clinic where IV infusions are administered.

Personnel

• A nurse or specialized healthcare provider administers the infusion.
• A supervising physician or pulmonologist may be available on-site.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Mild to moderate infusion-related reactions (e.g., headache, throat pain).

Rare Risks:

• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
• Infection at the injection site.

Management:

• Patients are monitored during and after the infusion for any adverse reactions.
• Emergency medication and equipment are available to manage severe reactions if needed.

Benefits

• Reduction in the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
• Improved lung function and overall quality of life.
• Patients may start to see improvements within a few days to weeks after the first infusion.

Recovery

• Post-procedure, patients are usually observed for a short period (about 1 hour) to ensure there are no adverse reactions.
• Normal activities can typically be resumed immediately unless otherwise instructed by the healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• Other biologic medications for asthma, such as mepolizumab or omalizumab.
• Continued use of high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and additional asthma control medications.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Other biologics may work similarly but might have different side effects or administration methods.
• Continuation with other medications might not be as effective for some patients with severe asthma.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Patients may feel a brief sting from the IV needle.
• Generally, patients are comfortable during the infusion and can possibly read, watch TV, or relax.

After the Procedure:

• Some patients may experience mild side effects like headache or sore throat.
• Pain or discomfort is usually minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

Pain Management and Comfort Measures:

• The clinic may provide comfort items like pillows and blankets.
• Pain or discomfort is rare and usually does not require significant interventions.