Reslizumab belongs to the class of medications called monoclonal antibodies. Specifically, it is an interleukin-5 inhibitor. It is used in addition to other medications to treat the symptoms of a type of asthma called eosinophilic asthma. This medication may be used when other "preventer" asthma medications, such as long-acting bronchodilators and corticosteroids have not been effective.

The recommended dose of reslizumab is based on body weight. Generally, it is calculated as 3 mg per kilogram of body weight. Reslizumab is given as an intravenous (into a vein) infusion, over 20 to 50 minutes, every 4 weeks.

It is always given under the supervision of a doctor in a hospital or similar setting with access to sterile equipment for preparation and the medical training to manage side effects, such as a severe allergic reaction.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important this medication be given exactly as recommended by your doctor. If you miss an appointment to receive reslizumab, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment.

This medication should be refrigerated and kept in its original package until it is time to prepare the medication for infusion. Keep it out of the sight and the reach of children.

The recommended dose of reslizumab is based on body weight. Generally, it is calculated as 3 mg per kilogram of body weight. Reslizumab is given as an intravenous (into a vein) infusion, over 20 to 50 minutes, every 4 weeks.

It is always given under the supervision of a doctor in a hospital or similar setting with access to sterile equipment for preparation and the medical training to manage side effects, such as a severe allergic reaction.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important this medication be given exactly as recommended by your doctor. If you miss an appointment to receive reslizumab, contact your doctor as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment.

This medication should be refrigerated and kept in its original package until it is time to prepare the medication for infusion. Keep it out of the sight and the reach of children.

Do not take this medication if you are allergic to reslizumab or any ingredients of the medication.

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.

The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

• dizziness
• headache
• nausea

Although most of the side effects listed below don't happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

• abdominal pain or discomfort
• back pain
• muscle pain
• signs of a reaction at the injection site (pain, redness, burning, bruising, swelling)
• signs of respiratory tract infection (symptoms may include fever or chills, shortness of breath, prolonged dizziness, headache, cough, sore throat, sinus pain, weight loss, or listlessness)
• skin rash, redness, itching or swelling
• trouble breathing
• vomiting
• wheezing

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

• signs of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., abdominal cramps, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting, or swelling of the face and throat)

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Acute asthma attacks: Reslizumab is not intended to treat an acute asthma attack.

If you start developing asthma symptoms, be sure to use your reliever medication for rapid relief of your asthma symptoms. It is very important that you have your reliever medication with you at all times. If you experience worsening symptoms or your reliever medications are not as effective as usual, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately.

Allergic reactions: In rare cases, some people may develop a serious allergic reaction to this medication. Signs of an allergic reaction include a severe rash, hives, swollen face or throat, or difficulty breathing. If these occur, let your doctor know immediately.

Corticosteroid withdrawal: Oral or inhaled corticosteroids for asthma should not be stopped suddenly when treatment with reslizumab is started. Check with your doctor before stopping or decreasing the dose of any of your asthma medications. Decreases in corticosteroid doses should be performed under the direct supervision of a doctor.

Parasite infections: This medication may weaken your resistance to parasite infections. If you are living in or travelling to a region where parasite infections are frequent, discuss with your doctor any special precautions that may be needed.

Pregnancy: No studies have been done to determine the safety and effectiveness of this medication when used by women who are pregnant. This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: It is not known if reslizumab passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking this medication, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children.

Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

• stop taking one of the medications,
• change one of the medications to another,
• change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
• leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.