Is Tezspire effective for non-eosinophilic asthma?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am reaching out regarding my 16-year-old daughter, who suffers from severe and uncontrolled asthma that does not respond to conventional treatments. She is currently prescribed Symbicort and Montelukast, yet she still requires prednisone bursts nearly every month. Her pulmonologist has recently suggested that she start receiving Tezspire (tezepelumab) injections, as her eosinophil levels are not high enough to qualify for other biologic therapies. This year alone, she has missed 32 days of school due to asthma exacerbations, and her most recent episode necessitated a four-day hospitalization, including a brief stay in the ICU. We have made efforts to remove all known triggers from our home environment.

I have two inquiries: First, is Tezspire effective for cases of non-eosinophilic asthma when other treatments have proven ineffective? Second, what are the long-term safety implications for a teenager using this medication? The financial burden is significant, even with our insurance coverage, as we face a monthly copay of $1,200. However, witnessing her struggle to breathe is truly distressing, and we are willing to make financial sacrifices if this treatment could genuinely provide her with relief.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I have reviewed the comprehensive history you provided. Frankly, for non-eosinophilic asthma, the new medication Tezspire (Tezepelumab, a biological drug for asthma) may not demonstrate significant effectiveness. While it can be administered to her, the outcomes may not meet expectations as they would for eosinophilic asthma. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate the cost-benefit ratio in her situation before proceeding.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.