Does Mepolizumab work for severe asthma in the elderly?

Question

Hi doctor,

I'm 50 years old and have been struggling with severe asthma. I recently heard about a Nucala treatment that can be added to asthma care. Could you please explain how Nucala works for someone with severe asthma, like mine? What kind of improvements should I expect if I start using it?

Are there any side effects I should be aware of before trying it? Also, just to give you some background, I'm currently using Bromhexine inhalers and tablets as part of my treatment.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Thanks for your question about Nucala (Mepolizumab). Nucala is a type of medication called an interleukin inhibitor. It's used as an add-on or maintenance treatment for people with severe asthma that isn't well controlled by regular asthma medications, especially in those who have high levels of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell linked to inflammation).

The kind of improvement you might see with Nucala depends on how severe your asthma is and whether your eosinophil count is elevated. If your eosinophil levels are high, Nucala may help reduce asthma flare-ups, improve breathing, and lower your need for oral steroids over time. The side effects are as follows: back pain, fatigue, itching, upper respiratory tract infection, muscle spasms, and nasal congestion. You should continue with the Bromhexine medications with Nucala if you notice no improvement or if severe symptoms evolve.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.