Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on December 16th, 2025.
Biologic therapies target specific immune pathways to control severe asthma symptoms.
Xolair, Nucala, Fasenra, Cinqair, and Dupixent are FDA-approved biologics for asthma treatment.
These treatments can reduce asthma attacks and improve the quality of life for patients with moderate to severe asthma.
Biologics are typically prescribed when inhalers and standard medications are insufficient.
Telehealth services like Doctronic.ai offer convenient access to asthma care and guidance on biologic therapies.
Asthma is a chronic condition that inflames and narrows the airways, making breathing difficult. For many people, standard treatments such as inhalers and steroids manage symptoms well. However, some patients experience severe asthma that does not respond adequately to these therapies. This is where biologics come in.
Biologics are advanced medications derived from living cells designed to target specific molecules involved in the asthma inflammatory process. Unlike traditional drugs that broadly suppress inflammation, biologics zero in on precise immune system components, reducing side effects and improving effectiveness.
These therapies are usually reserved for moderate to severe asthma cases, especially when frequent exacerbations occur despite optimized treatment. They can significantly decrease asthma attacks, improve lung function, and reduce the need for oral steroids. In some cases, patients may find that their overall quality of life improves as they experience fewer symptoms and can engage in activities that were previously limited by their condition.
Biologics block specific proteins or cells that drive airway inflammation. For example, some target immunoglobulin E (IgE), a key antibody in allergic asthma, while others inhibit interleukins like IL-5 or IL-4/IL-13, which promote eosinophilic inflammation. By interrupting these pathways, biologics help calm the immune response and prevent airway swelling and mucus buildup. This targeted approach not only helps in managing asthma symptoms but also plays a crucial role in preventing long-term damage to lung tissue, which can occur due to chronic inflammation.
Doctors may recommend biologics for patients who:
Have frequent asthma attacks despite using inhaled corticosteroids and long-acting bronchodilators
Require oral steroids regularly to control symptoms
Show elevated levels of eosinophils or IgE in blood tests
Experience severe allergic or eosinophilic asthma
Consulting a healthcare provider is essential to determine if biologics are appropriate. Telehealth platforms like Doctronic.ai provide quick access to expert advice and can help guide treatment decisions from the comfort of home. It is important for patients to discuss their medical history, lifestyle, and any potential allergies with their healthcare provider, as these factors can influence the effectiveness and safety of biologic treatments. Understanding the full scope of one's asthma triggers and symptoms can also empower patients to make informed decisions about their care.
Xolair was the first biologic approved for asthma and targets IgE antibodies, which play a central role in allergic asthma. It is given as a subcutaneous injection every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on body weight and IgE levels.
This treatment is effective for patients with moderate to severe persistent allergic asthma who have a positive skin test or in vitro reactivity to a perennial aeroallergen. Xolair can reduce asthma exacerbations and the need for corticosteroids.
Nucala targets interleukin-5 (IL-5), a cytokine responsible for the growth and activation of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in asthma inflammation. It is administered as a monthly injection.
It is prescribed for severe eosinophilic asthma and has been shown to lower exacerbation rates and improve lung function, allowing many patients to reduce their oral steroid use.
Fasenra also targets IL-5 but works by depleting eosinophils directly through antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity. It is given as an injection every 4 weeks for the first three doses, then every 8 weeks.
This biologic is suited for patients with severe eosinophilic asthma and can lead to fewer asthma attacks and hospital visits.
Cinqair is another IL-5 antagonist, but it is administered intravenously every 4 weeks. It is indicated for severe eosinophilic asthma in adults.
Because it is given by infusion, it requires administration in a healthcare setting. Cinqair has demonstrated improvements in lung function and reductions in asthma exacerbations.
Dupixent blocks the IL-4 and IL-13 pathways, which are involved in type 2 inflammation seen in many asthma patients. It is delivered as a subcutaneous injection every two weeks.
It is approved for moderate to severe asthma with an eosinophilic phenotype or oral steroid-dependent asthma. Dupixent has been shown to reduce exacerbations and improve lung function while also benefiting patients with atopic dermatitis and nasal polyps.
What to Expect When Starting Biologic TherapyBefore starting biologics, your doctor will perform tests to identify your asthma type and severity. Blood tests to measure eosinophils or IgE levels, lung function tests, and allergy assessments help pinpoint the best biologic for you.
Biologics are typically administered via injection or infusion at a clinic or at home under medical supervision. Your healthcare provider will monitor your response and any side effects regularly. Common side effects include injection site reactions, headache, cough, dizziness, fast heartbeats, or mild allergic responses.
Many patients experience fewer asthma attacks, improved breathing, and reduced reliance on steroids after starting biologics. It may take several weeks to months to notice full benefits. Ongoing follow-up is essential to adjust treatment as needed.
Managing asthma can be challenging, especially for those with severe symptoms who need frequent medical attention. Telehealth services like Doctronic.ai offer a convenient way to get expert medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment options without leaving home.
Doctronic’s AI-powered platform provides fast, personalized care that remembers your history and offers up-to-date medical guidance. You can discuss your asthma symptoms, learn about biologic therapies, and get referrals to specialists if needed. This approach saves time and reduces the stress of in-person visits while maintaining high-quality care.
24/7 access to telehealth doctors across all 50 states
Affordable video visits under $40
AI-driven personalized care that remembers your medical history
Quick answers to questions about asthma symptoms and treatments
Biologics are a powerful tool for controlling severe asthma, but managing the condition also involves lifestyle adjustments. Avoiding triggers, adhering to prescribed medications, and regular monitoring are key to breathing easier.
Working closely with your healthcare provider, whether through telehealth or in person, ensures your treatment plan evolves with your needs. Biologics can transform asthma care for many, turning frequent flare-ups into manageable symptoms and improving overall quality of life.
Some patients notice improvements within weeks, but it may take several months to experience the full benefits of biologics.
Biologics have been studied extensively and are generally safe for long-term use under medical supervision. Regular monitoring helps manage any potential side effects.
Biologics do not cure asthma but help control symptoms and reduce exacerbations significantly.
Your doctor will determine the best option based on your asthma type, severity, and test results such as eosinophil counts or IgE levels.
Telehealth services like Doctronic.ai can help evaluate your symptoms and guide you toward appropriate biologic treatments, including referrals to specialists for administration.
Key takeawaysBiologic therapies target specific immune pathways to control severe asthma symptoms.Xolair, Nucala, Fasenra, Cinqair, and Dupixent are FDA-approved biologics [...]
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