WARNING

Cinqair (reslizumab) is a medication used to treat severe asthma by reducing inflammation in the lungs. Like all medications, it carries certain risks and side effects that should be considered:

• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Cinqair, which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Respiratory Problems: There is a risk of developing respiratory issues such as worsening asthma symptoms, difficulty breathing, or an increased risk of respiratory infections.
• Cancer Risk: Long-term use of Cinqair may potentially increase the risk of certain cancers. This risk should be carefully weighed against the benefits of the medication.
• Parasitic Infections: Cinqair may increase susceptibility to certain parasitic infections, particularly in individuals who have lived in or traveled to regions where such infections are common.
• Other Side Effects: Common side effects may include headache, back pain, fatigue, nausea, and an increased risk of herpes infections.

It’s essential for individuals considering Cinqair to discuss these risks and potential benefits thoroughly with their healthcare provider. Regular monitoring and follow-up appointments are typically recommended to manage any side effects and ensure the medication remains effective.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Cinqair (reslizumab) is prescribed primarily for the treatment of severe asthma in adults. It is specifically used for patients who have elevated levels of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions and asthma inflammation. Cinqair helps to reduce the frequency of asthma attacks and improve overall lung function in these individuals.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines for using Cinqair:

• Administration: Cinqair is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion. It is given by a healthcare professional in a clinic or hospital setting.
• Dosage: The usual dosage of Cinqair is 3 mg per kg of body weight, given once every 4 weeks. The exact dose and frequency may vary based on individual factors and the prescribing doctor’s recommendation.
• Preparation: Before starting Cinqair treatment, healthcare providers will assess the patient’s eosinophil levels to determine if the medication is appropriate.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of asthma symptoms, lung function tests, and eosinophil counts may be necessary during treatment to assess effectiveness and adjust dosage if needed.
• Duration: Cinqair is typically used as a long-term treatment to manage severe asthma. It is important to continue using Cinqair as prescribed, even if asthma symptoms improve.
• Adjunct Therapy: Cinqair is often used alongside other asthma medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators, as part of a comprehensive asthma management plan.

It’s crucial for patients to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully when using Cinqair to ensure safe and effective treatment. Any concerns or potential side effects should be promptly discussed with a healthcare professional.

Other uses for this medicine

• Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA): Cinqair has shown some promise in treating EGPA, a rare autoimmune condition characterized by blood vessel inflammation and eosinophilic infiltration.
• Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps: Some studies have investigated the use of Cinqair for treating chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, particularly in patients with eosinophilic inflammation.

What special precautions should I follow?

When using Cinqair, it’s important to follow specific precautions to ensure safe and effective treatment:

• Allergy and Hypersensitivity: Inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies or hypersensitivities, especially to medications or ingredients in Cinqair.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of asthma symptoms, lung function tests, and eosinophil counts is crucial to evaluate treatment effectiveness and adjust dosage if necessary.
• Infections: Cinqair may increase the risk of certain infections, including parasitic infections. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you have a history of infections or live/travel to areas where parasitic infections are common.
• Immunizations: Stay up-to-date with all recommended vaccinations, as Cinqair treatment may affect your immune system’s response to infections.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The potential risks and benefits of Cinqair during pregnancy and breastfeeding should be carefully considered.
• Other Medications: Provide a complete list of all medications (prescription and over-the-counter), vitamins, and supplements you are taking to your healthcare provider. Some medications may interact with Cinqair or affect its effectiveness.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of Cinqair, such as allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and headaches. Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

By following these precautions and guidelines, you can help ensure that Cinqair is used safely and effectively as part of your treatment plan for severe asthma or any other approved indications.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions or restrictions associated with Cinqair. However, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is important for overall asthma management. If you have any specific dietary concerns or questions, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Contact Your Healthcare Provider: Notify your healthcare provider or the clinic where you receive your infusions as soon as possible.
• Reschedule: Work with your healthcare provider to reschedule the missed dose. Typically, Cinqair infusions are scheduled every 4 weeks. Missing a dose may affect the effectiveness of your treatment, so it’s important to adhere to the prescribed schedule as closely as possible.
• Follow-Up: Your healthcare provider may recommend additional monitoring or adjustments to your treatment plan based on the missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cinqair (reslizumab) can cause various side effects, although not everyone experiences them. It’s essential to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting treatment. Common side effects of Cinqair may include:

• Allergic Reactions: These can range from mild symptoms like rash, itching, or swelling to more severe reactions such as difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention).
• Respiratory Problems: Some individuals may experience worsening asthma symptoms, difficulty breathing, or an increased risk of respiratory infections.
• Headache: This is a common side effect reported by some patients using Cinqair.
• Back Pain: Musculoskeletal pain, including back pain, may occur in some individuals.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued can be a side effect of Cinqair treatment.
• Nausea: Some people may experience nausea as a side effect.
• Herpes Infections: There is an increased risk of herpes infections, such as cold sores or genital herpes, in individuals using Cinqair.
• Injection Site Reactions: If there is any irritation or reaction at the infusion site, inform your healthcare provider.

Less common but potentially serious side effects may include:

• Cancer: Long-term use of Cinqair may potentially increase the risk of certain types of cancer. This risk should be carefully weighed against the benefits of the medication.
• Parasitic Infections: Cinqair may increase susceptibility to certain parasitic infections, particularly in individuals who have lived in or traveled to regions where such infections are common.

It’s essential to report any unusual symptoms or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly. They can help monitor for side effects and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan to ensure your safety and well-being while using Cinqair. Regular follow-up appointments and monitoring are typically recommended during treatment with Cinqair.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Cinqair:

• Storage: Cinqair is typically administered in a healthcare setting, so storage is managed by the facility or clinic providing the infusion. If you are prescribed Cinqair for at-home administration (rare), follow specific storage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Generally:
  • Store Cinqair vials in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
  • Protect from light. Keep the vials in the original carton until ready to use.
• Disposal: Unused portions of Cinqair should be disposed of properly according to local regulations or as directed by your healthcare provider. Typically, healthcare facilities manage the disposal of medical waste, including unused medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Help: Contact emergency medical services (911) or your local poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms: Symptoms of overdose with Cinqair are not well-documented due to its nature as an intravenous medication administered in controlled settings. However, symptoms of an allergic reaction or severe side effects should be promptly addressed by healthcare professionals.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: During treatment with Cinqair, your healthcare provider will monitor your asthma symptoms, lung function, and possibly eosinophil counts regularly. Attend all scheduled appointments to ensure the medication is working effectively and to manage any potential side effects.
• Comprehensive Treatment Plan: Cinqair is usually part of a comprehensive asthma management plan that may include other medications (such as inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators), lifestyle changes, and possibly allergen avoidance strategies. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to optimize asthma control.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. The safety of Cinqair during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.
• Travel: If you need to travel with Cinqair, ensure you have enough medication and any necessary documentation for customs and security checks, especially if traveling internationally.
• Patient Assistance Programs: Some pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs that may help with the cost of Cinqair. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information on available resources.

Always keep open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any questions or concerns you have about Cinqair or its use. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific medical history and needs.