| name | Mepolizumab |
| Classification | Monoclonal antibody targeting interleukin-5 (IL-5) |
| Pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Subcutaneous injection; absorption is not fully characterized, but significant systemic exposure is achieved. | | distribution | Distributed throughout the body; high concentrations observed in lung tissue. | | metabolism | Metabolism is primarily by non-specific proteolytic pathways. | | excretion | Excretion is primarily by renal clearance, and to a lesser extent via other metabolic pathways. |
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| suggested dosage | | adult male 25 years 70kg | | specific formulation and strength | Variable depending on the specific indication and severity of the condition. Consult a physician for personalized dosage recommendation. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. | | typical dosage range | Typically, doses range from 100mg every 4 weeks to higher doses depending on the severity of disease. |
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| indications | | 1 | Severe eosinophilic asthma (specifically, when uncontrolled with other treatments) | | 2 | Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) or Churg-Strauss syndrome (CSS) | | 3 | Chronic eosinophilic pneumonia (CEP) |
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| Safety in pregnancy | | category rating | Category C (Animal studies have shown an adverse effect, but adequate studies in humans are lacking). Consult with a healthcare provider. | | details | Data on human use is limited, therefore caution is advised. Should mepolizumab use be deemed necessary, careful consideration of potential risks and benefits is warranted. |
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| Safety in breastfeeding | | status | Limited data available. It is best to consult with a physician | | details | Not recommended during breastfeeding due to the lack of substantial data regarding potential effects in infants. An alternative medication may be considered if treatment with mepolizumab is deemed essential. |
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| side effects | | 1 | Injection site reactions (e.g., pain, redness, swelling) | | 2 | Nasopharyngitis (common cold) | | 3 | Headache | | 4 | Upper respiratory infections | | 5 | Infections (including pneumonia) | | 6 | Nausea | | 7 | Fatigue | | 8 | Arthralgia (joint pain) | | 9 | Myalgia (muscle pain) | | 10 | Diarrhea | | 11 | Gastrointestinal upset | | 12 | Allergic reactions | | 13 | Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) potentially more pronounced in individuals with underlying immunodeficiency. |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Known hypersensitivity to mepolizumab or any of its components | | 2 | Active, uncontrolled infections |
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| interactions | | 1 | Potential interactions with other immunosuppressants or medications, as mepolizumab can influence immune system function. Discuss any other medications with a physician. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Monitor for infections throughout treatment; close monitoring of blood counts is also recommended. | | 2 | Regular follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring treatment response and evaluating potential side effects. | | 3 | Pre-existing immunodeficiencies may increase the risk for infections. | | 4 | May cause delayed or reduced response to vaccinations during treatment. |
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| additional informations | Mepolizumab requires subcutaneous administration and careful adherence to the prescribed regimen is crucial. It should only be administered by qualified healthcare professionals. |
| patient specific notes | A physician should assess individual needs and risks to determine if mepolizumab is an appropriate treatment for the patient, and to tailor the treatment based on specific health history, medical conditions and co-medications. |
