### What is Dupilumab (Dupixent)? Dupilumab, sold under the brand name Dupixent, is a type of medication known as a monoclonal antibody. These are lab-made proteins that help your body fight off diseases. ### What is it used for? Doctors prescribe Dupilumab to treat several conditions caused by inflammation, including: - **Asthma**: When other medications haven't worked. - **Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)**: When other treatments haven't been effective. - **Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps**: For adults. - **Eosinophilic Esophagitis**: For adults and children aged 12 and older. ### How does it work? Dupilumab targets specific proteins in your body that cause inflammation. Normally, inflammation helps your body respond to injury or infection. However, in conditions like asthma and eczema, your immune system triggers inflammation unnecessarily. Dupilumab blocks these proteins from sending inflammatory signals, reducing symptoms like trouble breathing, skin rashes, and itchiness. ### How is it administered? Dupilumab is given as an injection just under the skin. It comes in a prefilled syringe or injector pen. Your first dose is administered at your doctor's office, where you'll be trained to give yourself (or your child) the shot. After that, you can do the injections at home. ### Injection Sites You or a caregiver can inject Dupilumab in the front of your thigh, your stomach (avoiding the area around your belly button), or the back of your upper arm. Rotate the injection site each time to avoid irritation. ### Storage and Handling Keep the medication in the refrigerator and let it warm to room temperature for 30-45 minutes before use. Do not use a microwave or hot water to warm it. Inspect the medication to ensure it's not expired, cloudy, or discolored. ### Frequency of Use - **Asthma**: Adults and children 12 and older get a loading dose first, then a shot every 2 weeks. Children 6-11 get a shot every 2-4 weeks. - **Eczema**: Adults and children over 6 get a loading dose of two shots, followed by an injection every 2-4 weeks. Children 6 months to 5 years get a shot every 4 weeks. - **Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps**: Adults get a shot every 2 weeks. - **Eosinophilic Esophagitis**: Adults and children 12 and older get a weekly shot. ### Side Effects Common side effects include injection site reactions, eye problems, and cold sores. Serious side effects may require emergency help, such as severe allergic reactions. ### Cost and Insurance The retail price is high, but most people don't pay that much due to insurance coverage and assistance programs. ### Important Notes - Do not use Dupilumab if you're allergic to it or any of its ingredients. - Consult your doctor if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. - Do not use it to stop an asthma attack once it starts; use fast-acting rescue drugs instead.