FDA-Approved Treatments
Current approved therapies — what they are, who makes them, and what to ask your doctor.
FDA-approved for moderate-to-severe asthma (2018). Blocks IL-4 and IL-13 signaling — the core type 2 inflammatory pathway. Reduces exacerbations by 48–70% in trials. Most effective in patients with elevated eosinophils or FeNO.
FDA-approved for severe eosinophilic asthma (2017). Directly depletes eosinophils by targeting IL-5 receptor alpha. Reduces exacerbations by ~51% in trials. Most effective in patients with blood eosinophils ≥300 cells/μL.
FDA-approved for severe eosinophilic asthma (2015). First anti-IL-5 biologic approved for asthma. Reduces circulating eosinophils by ~80%. ~47% reduction in exacerbations vs placebo.
FDA-approved for severe asthma (2021). Targets TSLP — the most upstream trigger of airway inflammation. Works across all asthma phenotypes, not just eosinophilic. ~70% reduction in exacerbations in NAVIGATOR trial.
First biologic approved for severe asthma (2003). Anti-IgE monoclonal antibody — reduces free IgE, decreasing allergic triggering. Appropriate for allergic asthma (elevated IgE, skin test positive). 25+ year safety record.
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A specialist can phenotype your asthma — eosinophilic, allergic, non-type-2 — which determines which biologic is right for you. They'll order blood eosinophils, FeNO, total IgE, and allergen skin testing.
The right biologic depends on your asthma phenotype. Key biomarkers: Blood eosinophil count (≥300/μL = eosinophilic), FeNO ≥25 ppb (type 2 inflammation), Total IgE + allergen skin tests (elevated = allergic asthma). Ask your doctor to run a full type 2 biomarker panel.
Before biologics, make sure you're on optimal inhaler therapy: high-dose ICS + LABA, and possibly a LAMA. Check your inhaler technique — up to 60% of patients use inhalers incorrectly. Biologics are adjunct therapy, not a replacement for inhalers.
Document what triggers your asthma: allergens (dust mites, pet dander, mold, pollen), irritants (smoke, air pollution), exercise, cold air, viral infections, aspirin/NSAIDs. Trigger reduction plus biologic therapy produces better outcomes than either alone.
List prices for asthma biologics are $15K–$45K/year, but manufacturer programs often bring costs to near-$0 for commercially insured patients. Your specialist's office can help you enroll — don't delay treatment due to sticker price concerns.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Real questions from patients and caregivers — answered in plain English.