Will biologics help to manage asthma-COPD overlap?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand how distressing it can be to deal with both asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), especially when symptoms persist despite regular inhaler use.

Given your condition, asthma-COPD, and your age (60 years), biologic therapies like Dupixent (Dupilumab) or Tezspire (Tezepelumab) may be beneficial, particularly if your asthma has an eosinophilic or allergic component. While these are currently approved for severe asthma, emerging evidence suggests they might help in select cases, especially those with frequent exacerbations and steroid dependency. Your pulmonologist can assess eligibility by evaluating blood eosinophil counts and IgE (immunoglobulin E) levels.

I understand your concern about long-term steroid use, especially considering your diabetes (DM) and osteoporosis, both of which can worsen with prolonged corticosteroid therapy. This is why stepping down on steroids and exploring alternatives like biologics is a rational approach.

Regarding the progression: While COPD is progressive, asthma-related inflammation is more reversible, especially when well-controlled. With the right treatment plan, including inhalers, pulmonary rehabilitation, lifestyle changes (like weight management and smoking cessation if applicable), and potentially biologics, your symptoms and quality of life can improve.

Please consider speaking with your specialist about biologic therapy suitability. Pulmonary function tests and inflammatory marker assessments will be key.

I hope this has helped you.

Please feel free to reach out to me again if you have further queries.

Thank you.