This medication is used to treat certain skin conditions
(eczema, prurigo nodularis) and a certain esophagus problem (eosinophilic
esophagitis). It is also used along with other medications to help control
and prevent symptoms (such as wheezing and shortness of breath) caused by
asthma or ongoing lung disease (chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease-COPD). In addition, dupilumab may be used to reduce symptoms caused
by nasal polyps and the long-term swelling of the sinuses and nasal passage
(chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis). Dupilumab belongs to a class
of drugs known as monoclonal antibodies. It works by blocking certain
natural proteins in your body (interleukin-4 and interleukin-13) that may
cause inflammation and swelling.
This medication should not be used to relieve sudden
shortness of breath or wheezing. If sudden breathing problems occur, use
your quick-relief inhaler (such as albuterol, also called salbutamol in
some countries) as prescribed.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions
for Use provided by your pharmacist before you start using dupilumab and
each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to
prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor
or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by
your doctor. The injection is given in the upper arms, thighs, or abdomen
(except for a 2-inch area around your belly button). The dosage is based on
your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage may
also be based on weight.
Depending on your product, take the medication out of
the refrigerator 30 or 45 minutes before you inject it to allow it to reach
room temperature. Do not warm up this medication any other way (for
example, do not heat it in the microwave, place it in hot water, or leave
it in direct sunlight). Do not shake the medication. Before using, check
this product for cloudiness, particles, or discoloration. If you see any of
these things, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the
skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing
alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the
skin. Do not inject into skin that is tender, damaged, bruised or scarred.
To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how
to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit
from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a
reminder.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
or if it gets worse.
Redness, irritation, or pain at the injection site may
occur. Swelling/redness/itching of the eyes or eyelids may also occur. If
any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- other eye problems (such as eye pain, changes in
vision)
- joint pain
Rarely, people with asthma who also use a steroid
medication have had symptoms that might be due to stopping or lowering the
dose of their steroid. Tell your doctor right away if you develop symptoms
such as fever that doesn't go away, chest pain, or numbness/tingling in
your arms or legs. Do not stop or change the dose of your steroid
medication without your doctor's direction.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using dupilumab, tell your doctor or pharmacist
if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product
may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or
other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- a certain type of infection (helminth)
Tell your health care professional that you are using
dupilumab before having any immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid contact with
people who have recently received live vaccines (such as flu vaccine
inhaled through the nose).
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this medication passes into breast
milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
It is important to get each dose of this medication as
scheduled. If your dose is given weekly and you miss a dose, use it as soon
as you remember. Start your new weekly dosing schedule from that day on. If
your dose is given every 2 or 4 weeks and you miss a dose, give a dose if
it is less than 7 days from the missed dose. If your dose is given every 2
weeks and it is more than 7 days from the missed dose, then skip the missed
dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. If your dose is given every 4
weeks and it is more than 7 days from the missed dose, then start a new
dosing schedule with the first dose given right away. For any missed doses,
do not double the dose to catch up.
Store in the refrigerator. Do not freeze. Keep the
medication in the original carton to protect from light. This medication
may also be stored at room temperature if needed. If the medication is
stored at room temperature, discard after 14 days. Keep all medications
away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.
Your condition can cause complications in a medical
emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call
1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).