How to use dupilumab/dalbitux and precautions

Dupilumab (dupilumab) is a targeted immunosuppressant that is widely used to treat immune-mediated diseases such as atopic dermatitis (eczema), asthma, nasal polyps, and eosinophilic esophagitis. The following are its use methods and precautions in different diseases.

1. Atopic dermatitis: The initial dose for adult patients is 600 mg (two injections of 300 mg each), followed by 300 mg every two weeks. For children 6 months to 5 years old, the dose is adjusted based on body weight. The dosage for children over 6 years old is divided into different ranges according to weight. Children over 15 kg to 60 kg are initially 600 mg, 400 mg and 300 mg respectively, and 300 mg is injected every two weeks.

2. Asthma: Children aged 6 to 11 years old adjust the dose according to body weight: children from 15 kg to less than 30 kg should be injected with 300 mg every 4 weeks; children with ≥30 kg should be injected with 200 mg every two weeks. For patients 12 years of age and older, the initial dose is 400 mg or 600 mg, followed by 200 mg or 300 mg every two weeks. For patients dependent on oral corticosteroids, the initial dose is 600 mg, followed by 300 mg injections every two weeks.

3. Chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps: Adult and pediatric patients over 12 years old, 300 mg injected every two weeks.

4. Eosinophilic esophagitis: Adjusted according to body weight for patients over 1 year old: patients between 15 kg and less than 30 kg should be injected with 200 mg every two weeks; patients between 30 kg and 40 kg should be injected with 300 mg every two weeks; patients over 40 kg should be injected with 300 mg every week.

5. Nodular prurigo: The initial dose for adult patients is 600 mg (two injections of 300 mg each), followed by 300 mg every two weeks.

6. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: The recommended dosage for adult patients is injection300mg every two weeks.

7. Chronic spontaneous urticaria: Children aged 12 to 17 years old are adjusted according to weight: the initial dose for 30 kg to 60 kg is 400 mg, followed by 200 mg every two weeks; for children over 60 kg, the initial dose is 600 mg, followed by 300 mg every two weeks. The initial dose for adults is 600 mg, followed by 300 mg every two weeks.

8. Bullous pemphigoid: The recommended dosage for adult patients is 600 mg initially (in two injections of 300 mg each), followed by 300 mg every two weeks.

Things to note

1. Injection site reaction: Common side effects include pain, redness, swelling and itching at the injection site. Pay attention to the cleaning and care of the injection site.

2. Impact on the immune system: Dupilumab may affect the immune system and increase the risk of infection. The immune function should be checked regularly during use.

3. Eye adverse reactions: such as conjunctivitis, keratitis and other eye discomforts. If blurred vision occurs, you should seek medical treatment in time.

4. Allergic reaction: Individual patients may have allergic reactions, such as rash, difficulty breathing, etc. If severe allergic reactions occur, the drug should be discontinued immediately.

5. Drug interactions: Use in combination with other immunosuppressants may increase the risk of side effects. Please inform your doctor of all drugs you are using before use.

6. Use by special groups: Pregnant and lactating women should use it with caution and only under the guidance of a doctor.

In short, dupilumab is a biological agent that treats a variety of immune-mediated diseases. However, during use, dosage adjustments must be made strictly in accordance with doctor's instructions and regular physical examinations must be performed.

Reference materials:https://www.dupixent.com/