Name of the Procedure:

Injection, benralizumab, 1 mg (J0517)

Summary

This procedure involves injecting benralizumab, a medication, into the body to help manage severe asthma. The injection helps reduce inflammation and is typically administered by a healthcare professional.

Purpose

Benralizumab injections are primarily used to treat severe asthma that is not adequately controlled with other medications. The goal is to reduce asthma symptoms, prevent asthma attacks, and improve overall respiratory function.

Indications

• Severe, uncontrolled asthma in patients 12 years and older
• High levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell)
• Frequent asthma attacks despite using high-dose inhaled corticosteroids and other asthma controllers

Preparation

• No specific fasting is required.
• Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, as some may need adjustment.
• Blood tests may be conducted to check eosinophil levels.
• Ensure you have a list of your current medications and any allergies.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: The healthcare professional will explain the procedure and obtain your consent.
2. Preparation: The injection site, usually the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen, will be cleaned and sterilized.
3. Injection: Benralizumab is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) using a pre-filled syringe or auto-injector.
4. Observation: After the injection, you may be asked to stay for a short period for observation to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions.

Tools used:

• Pre-filled syringe or auto-injector
• Alcohol swabs

The procedure does not typically require anesthesia or sedation.

Duration

The entire process, including observation, typically takes around 30 minutes.

Setting

The injection is usually administered in an outpatient clinic or a doctor’s office.

Personnel

• Trained nurse or healthcare provider
• Doctor or specialist in case of immediate reaction management

Risks and Complications

• Common: Injection site reactions (redness, swelling), headache, sore throat
• Rare: Allergic reactions, anaphylaxis
• Management: Healthcare professionals are trained to manage these risks and will have emergency treatments available if needed.

Benefits

• Improved asthma control
• Reduction in the frequency and severity of asthma attacks
• Patients may start to see improvement within the first week, but it could take several weeks for full benefits.

Recovery

• Minimal recovery time; normal activities can usually be resumed immediately
• Follow any specific post-injection instructions given by your healthcare provider.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended to monitor your asthma and response to the treatment.

Alternatives

• Other asthma medications like oral corticosteroids, inhaled corticosteroids, and long-acting beta-agonists
• Biologics such as omalizumab, mepolizumab, and dupilumab
• Each alternative has its own pros and cons in terms of efficacy, side effects, and route of administration.

Patient Experience

• During: Mild discomfort or stinging at the injection site; the procedure is quick.
• After: Possible mild soreness or redness at the injection site; generally minimal disruption to daily activities.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relief or cold compresses can be used to alleviate discomfort if needed.