Overview:
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Generic Name: Dupilumab
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Brand Name: Dupixent
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Strength: 300 mg per pre-filled syringe or pen
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Dosage Form: Subcutaneous Injection
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Drug Class: Interleukin-4 Receptor Alpha Antagonist (Biologic Monoclonal Antibody)
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Therapeutic Use: Immunology / Allergy / Pulmonology / Dermatology
What Is Dupixent Used For?
Dupixent (Dupilumab) is a fully human monoclonal antibody that has become a cornerstone in treating several chronic inflammatory conditions driven by Type 2 inflammation.
Approved Indications:
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Moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (eczema) in adults and children ≥6 months unresponsive to topical therapy
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Severe eosinophilic or oral corticosteroid-dependent asthma in adults and adolescents ≥12 years
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Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP)
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Eosinophilic esophagitis in adults and adolescents
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Prurigo nodularis in adults
How Dupilumab Works:
Dupilumab binds to the interleukin-4 receptor alpha subunit, blocking both IL-4 and IL-13 signaling pathways—key drivers of type 2 inflammatory response. This targeted inhibition leads to:
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Reduced inflammation and immune overactivation
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Improved skin barrier in eczema
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Lowered eosinophil levels in asthma
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Reduced nasal polyp burden and sinus inflammation
Dosage & Administration:
General Guidelines:
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Atopic Dermatitis:
Initial 600 mg (two 300 mg injections), followed by 300 mg every 2 weeks -
Asthma:
200 mg or 300 mg every 2 weeks depending on weight and eosinophil count -
CRSwNP:
300 mg every 2 weeks
Route: Subcutaneous (under the skin), self-administered after training or by a healthcare professional.
Important Instructions:
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Rotate injection sites
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Do not shake the pre-filled syringe
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Store in a refrigerator (2°C–8°C); allow to reach room temperature before use
Common Side Effects:
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Injection site reactions
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Eye problems (conjunctivitis, dry eyes)
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Cold sores (herpes simplex)
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Headache
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Joint pain
Serious Adverse Events (Seek Medical Help):
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Eye inflammation (keratitis, conjunctivitis)
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Allergic reactions including anaphylaxis (rare)
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Eosinophilic conditions (vasculitis, pneumonia)
Who Should Avoid or Use Cautiously?
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Allergy to dupilumab or its ingredients
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Pregnancy: No known harm in animal studies, but use only if clearly needed
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Immunocompromised patients should be monitored closely
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Live vaccines should be avoided during treatment
Drug & Food Interactions:
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No major drug interactions identified
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Can be used alongside topical corticosteroids or standard asthma inhalers
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Food has no effect on the drug since it’s injected
Dupilumab in Global Clinical Practice:
Dupixent is approved by US FDA, EMA, and health authorities in India, UAE, UK, and Saudi Arabia, supported by data from pivotal trials like LIBERTY AD, QUEST, and SINUS-24/52. It is also listed in NICE guidelines (UK) and AAAI protocols (USA).
FAQs – Patient Insights on Dupixent 300 mg
Q: How long does it take to see results with Dupixent?
A: Some patients see improvement in 2–4 weeks, though full response may take longer.
Q: Is Dupixent an immunosuppressant?
A: No, it’s an immune modulator—not a general immunosuppressive agent.
Q: Can Dupixent be used long-term?
A: Yes, it is approved for chronic use under supervision.
Q: Can I stop Dupixent once I feel better?
A: Stopping may lead to symptom recurrence. Discuss with your physician first.