Side effects and what to do about them

Dupixent (dupilumab) is an injection prescribed to treat several conditions, including atopic dermatitis and asthma. Its side effects range from mild to serious and can vary depending on the condition you’re taking the drug for.

In addition to atopic dermatitis and asthma, Dupixent is also approved to treat rhinosinusitis, eosinophilic esophagitis, and the skin condition prurigo nodularis. Depending on the condition it’s treating, Dupixent can be used in adults and some children.

Here are some fast facts about Dupixent:

• Active ingredient: dupilumab, which is a biologic
• Drug class: monoclonal antibody
• Drug form: liquid solution in a prefilled syringe or pen, given as a subcutaneous injection
• FDA approval year: 2017

You’ll likely take Dupixent long term if you and your doctor agree that the drug is working for your condition. Read on to learn about potential common, mild, and serious side effects of this drug. For a general overview of Dupixent, including details about its uses, see this article.

Dupixent can cause certain side effects (also known as adverse effects), some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days or weeks. But if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Dupixent in clinical trials. These side effects can vary depending on the condition the drug is being used to treat.

More common side effects in people taking Dupixent for atopic dermatitis (eczema) include:

• reactions where the drug is injected, such as pain and swelling
• pink eye*
• blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)*
• keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)*
• increased risk of cold sores on the lips and around the mouth, if you have oral herpes†

More common side effects in people taking Dupixent for rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps include:

• reactions where the drug is injected, such as pain and swelling
• high levels of white blood cells called eosinophils*
• insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• toothache
• gastritis (stomach inflammation)

More common side effects in people taking Dupixent for asthma include:

• reactions where the drug is injected, such as pain and swelling
• throat pain or soreness
• high levels of white blood cells called eosinophils*

More common side effects in people taking Dupixent for eosinophilic esophagitis include:

• reactions where the drug is injected, such as pain and swelling
• upper respiratory infection
• joint pain*
• increased risk of symptoms of oral herpes or herpes zoster (commonly known as shingles) if you have either virus†

More common side effects in people taking Dupixent for prurigo nodularis include:

• nasopharyngitis (inflammation in the nose and throat)
• pink eye
• increased risk of symptoms of oral herpes or herpes zoster (shingles) if you have either virus†
• dizziness
• muscle pain

* For details, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.
† Dupixent does not cause infection with the herpes virus. It can cause the virus to become active and cause symptoms if the virus is already present in your body.

Mild side effects can occur with Dupixent. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Dupixent’s prescribing information.

Mild side effects that have been reported with Dupixent include:

• joint pain*
• reactions at the injection site, such as pain and swelling
• increased risk of cold sores on the lips and around the mouth, if you have oral herpes†
• increased risk of symptoms if you have other herpes viruses, such as herpes zoster (commonly known as shingles)†
• throat pain or soreness
• high levels of white blood cells called eosinophils*
• insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• toothache
• gastritis (stomach inflammation)
• upper respiratory infection
• nasopharyngitis (inflammation in the nose and throat)
• dizziness
• muscle pain

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days or weeks. But if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. If you develop a side effect while taking Dupixent and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch.

* For details, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.
† Dupixent does not cause infection with the herpes virus. It can cause the virus to become active and cause symptoms if the virus is already present in your body.

Dupixent may cause serious side effects. The list below may not include all possible serious side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Dupixent’s prescribing information.

If you develop serious side effects while taking Dupixent, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Serious side effects that have been reported with Dupixent, and are discussed in “Side effect specifics” below, include:

• eye-related side effects
• eosinophilic conditions
• allergic reaction

Long-term side effects

A clinical trial showed that side effects from Dupixent were similar whether the drug was used short term or long term.

Most side effects that Dupixent causes are short term. But in rare cases, the drug can cause side effects that may be long lasting. These include eye-related side effects, such as changes in vision and new or worsening eye conditions. Long lasting side effects may also include eosinophilic conditions such as vasculitis (swelling and inflammation of blood vessels).

For more information about eye-related side effects and vasculitis, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.

Dupixent may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.

Should I expect to gain weight when taking Dupixent?

It’s unlikely you’ll gain weight as a side effect of using Dupixent. People using the drug in its original clinical trials didn’t report weight gain.

Since the drug was approved, a very small study found a possible link between weight gain and Dupixent treatment in people with atopic dermatitis (eczema). But more research is needed to determine whether Dupixent or a different factor caused the weight gain.

Some other drugs that treat the same conditions Dupixent is prescribed for can cause weight gain. These other drugs include corticosteroids such as prednisone (Rayos, Prednisone Intensol).

If you have questions or concerns about weight gain or your Dupixent treatment, talk with your doctor.

Does Dupixent cause hair loss?

People using Dupixent in clinical trials didn’t report hair loss as a side effect.

But since Dupixent was approved, there have been rare reports of people experiencing hair loss after starting the drug.

On the other hand, Dupixent has been found to reduce hair loss in some people. Research has looked at people with atopic dermatitis and alopecia areata (an autoimmune condition that causes hair loss). In some cases, Dupixent reduced both hair loss and atopic dermatitis symptoms. Because of this finding, the drug is being studied to determine whether it can treat alopecia areata.

At present, it’s not known if Dupixent can cause hair loss or if the drug may treat hair loss. If you’d like to learn more about Dupixent and hair loss, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Is fatigue a side effect of Dupixent?

It’s not likely that you’ll have fatigue (low energy) as a side effect of taking Dupixent. People using the drug in clinical trials didn’t report having fatigue.

But fatigue is a side effect of a similar drug called mepolizumab (Nucala). Mepolizumab is approved to treat severe eosinophilic asthma.

If you have questions or concerns about your energy level while taking Dupixent, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They may be able to suggest ways to help boost it.

What side effects can I expect when using Dupixent for asthma?

More common side effects in people taking Dupixent for asthma include:

• reactions where the drug is injected, such as pain and swelling
• throat pain or soreness
• high levels of white blood cells called eosinophils*

For a full list of side effects Dupixent may cause in people with asthma, you can view the drug’s prescribing information. You can also ask your doctor or pharmacist.

* For more information, see “Eosinophilic conditions” in the “Side effect specifics” section below.

Are headaches a possible side effect of using Dupixent?

It’s unlikely you’ll experience headaches as a side effect of Dupixent. People taking the drug in clinical trials didn’t report having headaches.

But headache is a side effect of similar drugs called Fasenra (benralizumab) and Nucala (mepolizumab). These drugs are approved to treat some of the same conditions that Dupixent treats. These include severe eosinophilic asthma and rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

If you have questions or concerns about headaches while taking Dupixent, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Is cancer one of Dupixent’s side effects?

No, cancer isn’t known to be a side effect of Dupixent. People using the drug in its clinical trials didn’t report developing cancer.

But another drug used to treat asthma or nasal polyps, Xolair (omalizumab), may increase your risk of certain types of cancer. These include breast cancer and skin cancer.

If you have concerns about your risk of cancer or questions about Dupixent, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Learn more about some of the side effects that Dupixent may cause.

Eye-related side effects

Dupixent could cause ocular (eye-related) side effects, including:

• pink eye
• blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)
• keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)
• dry or itchy eyes
• changes in vision

Symptoms of these side effects can include eye redness, discharge, pain, and watery eyes.

In general, eye-related side effects weren’t common in clinical trials. Pink eye was more commonly reported in people who took Dupixent for atopic dermatitis or prurigo nodularis. But, eye-related side effects including pink eye may still occur in people taking the drug for other conditions.

What you can do

If you experience symptoms of eye-related side effects while taking Dupixent, talk with your doctor immediately. They can help determine the right treatment. This may include having you stop using Dupixent.

* To learn more, see the “Precautions for Dupixent” section below.

Joint pain

Although joint pain isn’t common with Dupixent, it can still occur. This side effect was reported in clinical trials by some people who used the drug for eosinophilic esophagitis or long-term rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

People receiving Dupixent for atopic dermatitis (eczema) or asthma didn’t report joint pain, but it could occur.

What you can do

If you have joint pain while using Dupixent, talk with your doctor. They may be able to recommend a treatment, such as an over-the-counter pain reliever. But if your joint pain doesn’t go away, they may recommend you stop using Dupixent.

Eosinophilic conditions

Eosinophilic conditions are a rare side effect of Dupixent when the drug is used to treat asthma. Examples of eosinophilic conditions are pneumonia and vasculitis (swelling and inflammation in your blood vessels).

Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that help your body fight infection. Having high levels of eosinophils can cause problems with inflammation.

Symptoms of eosinophilic conditions can include:

• fever
• swollen lymph nodes
• abnormal growths on parts of your skin

What you can do

If you develop any symptoms linked to eosinophilic conditions while using Dupixent, talk with your doctor right away. If your symptoms feel life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number right away.

Allergic reaction

As with most drugs, Dupixent can cause an allergic reaction in some people. This side effect was rare in clinical trials of the drug.

An allergic reaction is different from an injection site reaction, which can occur where you inject Dupixent. With an injection site reaction, you may have symptoms such as pain and swelling.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction can be mild or serious and can include:

• rash
• itching
• flushing
• swelling under your skin, typically in your lips, eyelids, feet, or hands
• swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe

What you can do

For mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. They may recommend ways to ease your symptoms and determine whether you should keep taking Dupixent. But if your symptoms are serious and you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Be sure to talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Dupixent. This drug may not be the right treatment for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. The conditions and factors to consider include:

Parasitic infection. Dupixent may reduce your immune system’s ability to fight a parasitic infection. If you have a parasitic infection (such as a tapeworm), it will need to be treated before you can use Dupixent. Your doctor can give you more information about parasitic infection and possible treatment options.

New or worsening joint pain. Dupixent can cause new or worsening joint pain. If you have a history of joint pain, tell your doctor about this before you start using Dupixent. Also tell your doctor about any new or worsening joint pain you experience while taking Dupixent. They might recommend seeing a rheumatologist or stopping Dupixent treatment, in some cases.

Vaccines. Some vaccines are not safe to receive with Dupixent. Specifically, you should not have live vaccines while you’re using this treatment. Live vaccines contain a weakened form of the germ that the vaccine is designed to protect against. Examples include the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine, the chickenpox vaccine, and the nasal spray flu vaccine. Talk with your doctor to make sure you have all the vaccines you need before starting Dupixent treatment.

Asthma attack. Dupixent cannot be used to treat sudden asthma attacks. Dupixent can help relieve asthma symptoms, so you have fewer and less severe asthma attacks. But the drug does not treat asthma attacks themselves.

Allergic reaction. You should not use Dupixent if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to Dupixent or any of its ingredients. Talk with your doctor about which other treatments are better choices for you.

Alcohol and Dupixent

There are no known interactions between consuming alcohol and taking Dupixent.

But alcohol may worsen the conditions Dupixent is used to treat. For this reason, if you drink alcohol, talk with your doctor about your condition and how alcohol may affect it. They can offer advice about how much alcohol is safe for you to consume.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Dupixent

Here’s some information about pregnancy, breastfeeding, and Dupixent treatment.

Pregnancy. It’s not known whether it’s safe to use Dupixent while pregnant. If you and your doctor agree that using the medication is the best option for you while pregnant, you may want to join a pregnancy registry. The registry monitors the health of people who use Dupixent during pregnancy. To learn more or sign up, call 877-311-8972 or visit the registry website. You can also talk with your doctor.

Breastfeeding. It’s not known whether Dupixent passes into human breast milk or is safe to use while breastfeeding. Your doctor can advise you on the advantages and disadvantages of the medication. They can also recommend healthy feeding options for your child.

Like most medications, Dupixent may cause side effects. Most side effects caused by Dupixent are mild and typically go away on their own. However, there are some rare but serious side effects reported by people using the drug in clinical trials.

If you’d like to learn more about Dupixent, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help answer any questions you have about side effects of taking the drug.

Besides talking with your doctor, you can do some research on your own. These articles might help:

• More information about Dupixent. For details about other aspects of Dupixent, refer to this article.
• Dosage. For information about the dosage of Dupixent, view this article.
• Cost. To find out about Dupixent’s cost, refer to this article.
• A look at your condition. For more information about the skin conditions Dupixent treats, see our dermatology hub and eczema hub. To learn more about asthma, see our asthma and allergies hub.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Does Dupixent cause joint pain?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Nov 12, 2021.

Although joint pain is not listed in the product information as a side effect of Dupixent (dupilumab), reports of painful joints, tendinitis, and arthritic-like pain associated with Dupixent use are starting to appear. Notable examples in the literature include:

• A 55-year-old woman with life-long AD who had been taking Dupxient for one and a half years complained of joint pain in multiple joints, especially her thumbs, for a few months
• A 38- year-old woman developed severe joint pain and morning stiffness in one ankle, within days of her first dose of Dupixent which then progressed to her knees, hips, and elbows. Other causes of arthritis were ruled out and the Dupixent was discontinued. Treatment with prednisolone and celecoxib resolved the joint pain and her AD was subsequently controlled with methotrexate
• A 40-year-old man who had been administering Dupixent for 16 weeks developed generalized joint pains and morning stiffness resulting in a progressive decline in mobility. Dupixent was discontinued and naproxen administered; however, 4 months later his mobility remained poor
• A 48-year-old man developed left thumb tenderness and bilateral Achilles tendinopathy after 6 weeks of Dupixent. He continued with Dupixent and his symptoms had partially improved 24 weeks after their onset
• A 68-year-old woman developed generalized joint pain 6 weeks after starting Dupixent. An ultrasound at 12 weeks demonstrated bilateral lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow). Dupixent was discontinued but she still had symptoms 15 weeks after discontinuation.

How do you treat Dupixent-related joint pain?

Naproxen may be given as treatment for Dupixent-associated joint pain, followed by methotrexate if naproxen is ineffective. Consideration should be given to discontinuing Dupixent if the joint pain persists despite treatment or is particularly severe.

What causes Dupixent-related joint pain or tendinitis?

Experts aren’t sure exactly why Dupixent causes joint pain, but suspect that in certain people, by preferentially inhibiting the interleukins IL‐4 and IL‐13, Dupixent may enhance IL‐17‐mediated inflammation, particularly in the joints.

What are the side effects of Dupixent?

The most common side effects reported with Dupixent in the product information include:

• Injection site reactions (such as redness, pain, swelling at the injection site) experienced by 10% of people
• Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva [Linin] of the eye) which includes conjunctivitis due to allergic, bacterial, or viral causes, giant papillary conjunctivitis, eye irritation, and eye inflammation experienced by 10% of people
• Oral herpes (cold sores), experienced by 4% of people
• Other herpes simplex virus infections, experienced by 2% of people
• Itchy eyes, experienced by 1% of people
• Dry eye, experienced by less than 1% of people
• Blepharitis (inflammation along the edges of the eyelids), experienced by less than 1% of people
• Keratitis (an inflammation of the cornea), experienced by less than 1% of people.

References

• Heymann W. Dupilumabs growing pains. American Academy of Dermatology Association. 2020; Jan 8 (2)1. https://www.aad.org/dw/dw-insights-and-inquiries/2020-archive/january/dupilumabs-growing-pains
• Acute Arthritis and Arthralgia as an Adverse Drug Reaction to Dupilumab. Practice Update. Dermatology. Sept 23 2019 https://www.practiceupdate.com/content/acute-arthritis-and-arthralgia-as-an-adverse-drug-reaction-to-dupilumab/89154
• Dupixent (dupilumab) 10/2021 sanofi-aventis U.S. LLC https://www.drugs.com/pro/dupixent.html
• Dupixent (dupilumab) Dupixent.com Sanofi https://www.dupixent.com/

Related medical questions

• What are the most common skin conditions? (with photos)
• Why does Dupixent cause eye problems?
• Is Dupixent an immunosuppressant?
• Does Dupixent cause weight gain?
• Can you drink alcohol on Dupixent?
• How long can Dupixent stay out of the fridge?
• Can Dupixent cure eczema?
• Does Dupixent cause hair loss?
• How does Dupixent help with asthma?
• How fast does Dupixent work?
• How do you inject Dupixent?

Drug information

• Dupixent Information for Consumers
• Dupixent Information for Healthcare Professionals
  (includes dosage details)
• Side Effects of Dupixent
  (detailed)

Related support groups

• Dupixent
  (22 questions, 55 members)

Medical Disclaimer

what you need to know – Drink-Drink

Overview

If you have certain types of eczema, asthma, or sinusitis, your doctor may suggest Dupixent (dupilumab) as a treatment option. Along with other questions you may have about a drug, you may be interested in its side effects.

Dupixent is a prescription drug used to treat the following conditions in adults and some children:

• moderate to severe asthma that is eosinophilic (associated with high levels of white blood cells called eosinophils) or requires regular treatment with corticosteroids taken by mouth

Dupixent is also used in adults to treat:

• long-term rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps that does not respond to other treatments (rhinosinusitis is swelling of the nasal passages and paranasal sinuses. Nasal polyps are benign growths in the nose).

Dupixent is a biological product, which means that it is made using living cells. It treats the conditions listed above by helping to reduce inflammation.

You will get Dupixent by injection under your skin. Your doctor can teach you how to inject yourself at home. If Dupixent works for you without causing any nasty side effects, you are likely to use it for a long time.

For more information about Dupixent, including how to use it, see this detailed article.

Like all medicines, Dupixent can cause mild or serious side effects. More information about this can help you decide if this treatment is right for you. Keep reading to learn more about the side effects of Dupixent.

What are the common side effects of Dupixent?

Some people may experience mild or severe side effects while taking Dupixent. Examples of the most commonly reported side effects of Dupixent include:

• injection site reactions*
• conjunctivitis (pink eye)†
• blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)†
• pain in the mouth or throat
• herpes

mild side effects of Dupixent?

Examples of mild side effects reported with Dupixent include:

• injection site reactions*
• mild eye side effects such as conjunctivitis (redness of the eyes) or blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids)*
• herpes
• joint pain*
• pain in the mouth or throat
• toothache
• trouble sleeping
• gastritis (inflammation in the stomach)
• eosinophil ia (increased number of white blood cells called eosinophils)

Most of the time these side effects should be temporary. And some are easy to deal with. But if you have any symptoms that continue or bother you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. And don’t stop using Dupixent unless your doctor recommends it.

The above list does not include all side effects of Dupixent. For more information about the side effects of the drug, see the information for patients with the drug Dupixent.

After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it monitors and analyzes the drug’s side effects. If you would like to notify the FDA of a side effect you had with Dupixent, visit MedWatch.

What are the serious side effects of Dupixent?

Serious side effects reported with Dupixent include:

• Serious eye side effects*
• Eosinophilic conditions*
• serious side effects see a doctor immediately. If the side effects seem life-threatening or if you think you need emergency medical attention, call 9 right away11 or your local emergency number.

  Frequently Asked Questions About Dupixent Side Effects

  Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Dupixent side effects.

  Is weight gain a side effect of Dupixent?

  No, weight gain is not a known side effect of Dupixent. This has not been reported in studies of the drug.

  However, weight gain is a common side effect of oral steroid medications. They are often used to treat severe eczema, asthma, and rhinosinusitis, which Dupixent also treats.

  If you are concerned about weight gain while taking medication, talk to your doctor. They can suggest ways to maintain a healthy weight.

  Can Dupixent cause hair loss?

  No, Dupixent does not cause hair loss. This side effect has not been reported in studies of this medication. In fact, Dupixent is being studied to see if it can help with hair growth in people suffering from alopecia areata.

  Alopecia areata is a condition in which the hair falls out in round patches. This can lead to complete loss of hair on the scalp or other parts of the body.

  This condition occurs when a person’s immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles. Dupixent targets an immune system protein that may be involved in alopecia areata.

  How long do the side effects of Dupixent last? Are there long term ones?

  Most mild side effects of Dupixent should go away on their own within a few days or a couple of weeks. But some may need treatment to help clear them. If you have side effects that last longer than a couple of weeks despite treatment, talk to your doctor.

  Some serious side effects of Dupixent, such as keratitis (inflammation of the cornea), may persist for a long time even with treatment. How long the side effects last will depend on how they respond to any treatments you may have for them.

  If you have questions or concerns about how long the side effects of Dupixent may last, talk to your doctor.

  Will using Dupixent cause you to have a headache or feel tired?

  No headaches or fatigue were reported in studies with Dupixent. But this does not mean that these side effects will not occur with this drug. These are common side effects that can be caused by many medications. And they are also a common problem in people with chronic diseases.

  If you experience bothersome headaches or fatigue while taking Dupixent, talk to your doctor. They can find the cause and recommend ways to solve the problem.

  Can Dupixent increase the risk of cancer?

  No, that’s unlikely. Studies have not found an increased risk of cancer in people receiving Dupixent.

  There is an increased risk of cancer with certain immunosuppressant drugs used to treat severe eczema or asthma. Immunosuppressants reduce certain functions of your immune system, which is your body’s defense against disease. These medicines can reduce your body’s ability to find and kill cancer cells.

  But Dupixent does not weaken your entire immune system. It only affects a couple of immune system proteins. So it’s unlikely to affect your body’s ability to find and destroy cancer cells.

  Side effects explained

  Find out more about some of the side effects that Dupixent may cause.

  joint pain

  Some people may experience joint pain while taking Dupixent. But studies have only reported this side effect in people taking Dupixent for rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps*. And it wasn’t particularly common.

  What can help

  If you experience joint pain while taking Dupixent, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about ways to manage it. For example, some of the following may help:

  • Applying hot or cold compresses to affected joints
  • Light exercise, such as swimming
  • Practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation or breathing exercises

  If you have excruciating joint pain , ask your pharmacist to recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever. Examples include Tylenol (acetaminophen) and anti-inflammatory gels such as Voltaren (diclofenac). However, if you have asthma, avoid taking oral anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil (ibuprofen). (“Oral” means ingestion.)

  Eye related side effects

  Dupixent usually causes ocular (eye related) side effects. These side effects may be mild or severe.

  Mild eye side effects reported with Dupixent include:

  • conjunctivitis (pink eye)
  • blepharitis (eyelitis)
  • dry eyes
  • itchy eyes

  90 013

  Serious eye side effects reported with Dupixent include:

  • keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)

  If left untreated, keratitis can damage vision or cause other problems such as corneal ulcers.

  In studies, eye side effects were more common in people taking Dupixent for eczema than for other uses. Conjunctivitis has been reported more frequently than other eye-related side effects.

  Eye side effect symptoms may include:

  • red eyes
  • itchy eyes
  • eye discharge
  • hard, swollen eyelids
  • dry eyes
  • eye pain
  • changes in vision

  What can help 90 139

  If you wear contact lenses or have any current vision problems, talk to your doctor before starting Dupixent treatment. They can advise you if Dupixent is right for you. They may also suggest ways to help avoid eye-related side effects.

  During treatment with Dupixent, call your doctor immediately if you develop eye-related symptoms or any new or worsening eye problems. Your doctor will examine your eyes and recommend the appropriate treatment based on your symptoms.

  Eosinophilic conditions

  Dupixent may sometimes increase the number of eosinophils in the blood. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell.

  If you have too many eosinophils (a condition called eosinophilia), this can sometimes cause inflammatory conditions. These include pneumonia (lung disease) and vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels).

  Although rare, early studies of Dupixent reported these conditions in people taking an asthma drug. The conditions may have been related to people taking lower doses of oral steroid medications as Dupixent relieved their asthma symptoms. (“Oral” means ingestion. ) But it is not known for sure whether these conditions were caused by Dupixent.

  Symptoms of these eosinophilic conditions may include:

  • skin rash
  • increased shortness of breath
  • chest pain
  • fever
  • tingling, tingling, or numbness in the arms or legs

  What can help

  If you have symptoms of an eosinophilic condition, seek immediate medical attention. Your doctor will look at the cause of your symptoms and may prescribe treatment if necessary.

  If you are taking oral steroids, do not reduce your dose or stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to. (For more on typical Dupixent dosages, see this article.)

  Injection site reactions

  You may experience injection site reactions during treatment with Dupixent. In studies, this was the most common side effect in people treated with Dupixent for any medical condition. Most often this happened at the initial dose of the drug.

  Injection site reactions may cause the following symptoms at the injection site of Dupixent:

  • redness or discoloration of the skin
  • pain
  • bruising
  • swelling
  • itching

  Injection site reactions are usually mild and resolve within a few days.

  What can help

  To avoid injection site reactions, inject a different area each time you give yourself a dose of Dupixent. This is called alternating injection sites. Write down the date and site you use each time as a reminder.

  Avoid injection into areas of skin that are tender, bruised, broken, or scarred. And do not rub the injection site after the injection.

  If you have an injection site reaction that causes discomfort, applying a cold compress to the area may help. See your doctor if you have a severe reaction or it doesn’t get better.

  Allergic reaction

  Like most medicines, Dupixent can cause an allergic reaction in some people.

  Symptoms may be mild or severe and may include:

  • skin rash
  • itching
  • redness (temporary warmth, redness, or increased skin color)
  • swelling under the skin, usually on the eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
  • swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat that makes breathing difficult

  What can help

  rash, seek medical attention immediately. To manage your symptoms, they may suggest an over-the-counter antihistamine you take by mouth, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine). Or they may recommend a product you apply to your skin, such as a hydrocortisone cream.

  If your doctor confirms that you had a mild allergic reaction to Dupixent, they will decide whether you should continue using it.

  If you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or difficulty breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms can be life threatening and require immediate medical attention.

  If your doctor confirms that you had a serious allergic reaction to Dupixent, he may ask you to switch to another treatment.

  Tracking side effects

  Consider keeping a record of any side effects you experience during your treatment with Dupixent. You can then share this information with your doctor. This is especially helpful when you first start taking new medications or using a combination of treatments.

  Your side effect notes may include things like:

  • what dose of the drug you were taking when you had the side effect
  • How soon after starting this dose did you experience a side effect
  • What were your symptoms due to the side effect
  • How did it affect your daily activities
  • What other medications did you also take
  • Any other information you think important

  Keeping and sharing notes with your doctor will help him learn more about how the drug is affecting you. And your doctor can use this information to adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

  Dupixent Warnings

  Dupixent may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other health conditions. Talk to your doctor about your medical history before starting Dupixent treatment. The list below includes factors to consider.

  Allergic reaction. If you have had an allergic reaction to Dupixent or any of its ingredients, you should not take Dupixent. Ask your doctor which other medicines are best for you.

  Parasitic infections. If you have a parasitic infection, such as a tapeworm infection, it should be treated before you start taking Dupixent. If you develop a parasitic infection during treatment with Dupixent, contact your doctor. The infection can be cured while you are still taking Dupixent. But if the infection does not go away, you may need to stop taking Dupixent until the infection goes away.

  Vaccine. Dupixent may weaken part of your immune system. As a result, you should not receive live vaccines while you are receiving Dupixent because they can cause infections. (A live vaccine contains a weakened form of the microbe that the vaccine is designed to protect against.)

  Examples of live vaccines include measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), typhoid, yellow fever, varicella, rotavirus, and influenza nasal spray. (The influenza vaccine given is not a live vaccine.)

  It is best to get vaccinated before starting treatment with Dupixent. Before starting treatment, talk to your doctor about any vaccinations you may need.

  New or increased joint pain. Joint pain may be a side effect of Dupixent treatment. Dupixent may also increase current joint pain. Tell your doctor if you have a history of joint pain, or if you develop new or worsening joint pain while taking Dupixent. They may recommend that you see a specialist or stop using Dupixent if your symptoms do not improve.

  Asthma attacks. Do not use Dupixent to treat an asthma attack or breathing problems. This medicine helps reduce the number and severity of asthma attacks you may have. But to remove an asthma attack will not work.

  Alcohol use and Dupixent

  Alcohol is not known to interact with Dupixent or affect the risk of side effects. If you are concerned about drinking alcohol while taking Dupixent, talk to your doctor.

  Pregnancy and lactation while taking Dupixent

  It is not known if Dupixent is safe to use during pregnancy. It is also not known whether Dupixent passes into breast milk and whether it can cause side effects in a breastfed baby.

  If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about the possible risks and benefits of taking Dupixent. And let them know if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed.

  If you use Dupixent while you are pregnant, you can register with the pregnancy registry. The Pregnancy Registry tracks the health of people who take certain medications during pregnancy. To learn more or register, you can call 877-311-8972 or visit the registry website. You can also talk to your doctor.

  What to ask your doctor

  Dupixent has some common side effects, but these are usually mild and easily manageable. There are not many serious side effects associated with this medicine.

  If you want to know more about the possible side effects of Dupixent, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide if this medication is a good option for you.

  Examples of questions you might want to ask include:

  • Can stopping Dupixent cause side effects?
  • How can I prevent eye side effects when I take Dupixent?
  • Can Dupixent make asthma worse?
  • Do I need to have any vaccines before I start taking Dupixent?

  If you have asthma and need advice on managing your condition, treatment news and more, subscribe to the Drink-Drink online newsletter.

  Ask a pharmacist

  Q:

  What should I do if I get conjunctivitis while taking Dupixent?

  Anonymous

  A:

  If you think you might get conjunctivitis (commonly known as pink eye) while taking Dupixent, you should contact your doctor. Symptoms include redness of the eyes, itching or watery eyes, and discharge from the eyes.

  Your doctor will likely recommend prescription eye ointment or eye drops to treat this eye problem.

  Beverage Pharmacy Team Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

  Registration data: Drink-Drink has made every effort to ensure that all information is accurate, complete and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and experience of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always check with your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or side effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given medicinal product does not mean that the drug or combination of drugs is safe, effective, or suitable for all patients or for all specific uses.

  Dupixent versus Symbicort Asthma Treatment: Differences and Side Effects

  • Medical and Pharmaceutical Editor: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP
  • The same
    • Are Dupixent and Symbicort the same thing?
  • Side effects
    • What are the possible side effects of Dupixent?
    • What are the possible side effects of Symbicort?
  • What’s happened
    • What is Dupixent?
    • What is Symbicort?
  • Drug Interactions
    • What drugs interact with Dupixent?
    • What drugs interact with Symbicort?
  • Dosage
    • How should I take Dupixent?
    • How should I take Symbicort?

  Are Dupixent and Symbicort the same thing?

  Dupilumab (dupilumab) injection and Symbicort (budesonide and formoterol fumarate dihydrate) are used to treat asthma.

  Dupixent is also used to treat adult patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis whose disease is not well controlled with topical prescription treatments or when these treatments are not recommended. Dupixent can be used with or without topical corticosteroids.

  Symbicort is also used to prevent bronchospasm. in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

  Dupixent and Symbicort are in different drug classes. Dupixent is an interleukin-4 receptor alpha antagonist and Symbicort is a combination steroid drug and a long-acting bronchodilator.

  Side effects of Dupixent other than Symbicort include reactions at the injection site, pink eye (conjunctivitis), swollen or swollen eyelids, oral herpes, inflammation of the cornea (keratitis), eye itching, another herpes simplex virus infection, and dryness eye .

  how much valtrex for herpes

  Symbicort side effects other than Dupixent include: Headache, throat irritation, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, back pain, stuffy nose, muscle or joint pain, and changes in your voice.

  Dupixent may interact with “live” vaccines, warfarin, and cyclosporine.

  Symbicort may interact with antibiotics, antifungals, MAO inhibitors, antidepressants, beta-blockers, and diuretics (water tablets).

  What are the possible side effects of Dupixent?

  Common side effects of Dupixent include:

  • injection site reactions,
  • pink eye (conjunctivitis),
  • swollen or swollen eyelids,
  • oral herpes,

  900 09 inflammation of the cornea (keratitis),

  • itchy eyes,
  • other herpes simplex infections and
  • dry eye.

  What are the possible side effects of Symbicort?

  Common side effects of Symbicort include:

  • Headache,
  • throat irritation,
  • nausea,
  • vomiting,
  • upset stomach,
  • back pain,
  • stuffy nose,
  • pain in muscles or joints, or
  • changes in your voice.

  Tell your doctor if you experience unlikely but serious side effects of Symbicort, including:

  • white patches on the tongue or in the mouth,
  • signs of infection (eg, fever, persistent sore throat),
  • mental/mood changes (such as nervousness),
  • sleep problems, , blurred vision),
  • increased thirst or urination,
  • muscle spasms or
  • shaking (tremor).

  What is Dupixent?

  Dupixent (dupilumab) for injection is an alpha interleukin-4 receptor antagonist indicated for the treatment of adult patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis whose disease is not well controlled by topical prescription therapy, or when this therapy is not recommended. Dupixent can be used with or without topical corticosteroids.

  What is Symbicort?

  Symbicort (budesonide and formoterol fumarate dihydrate) is a combination of a steroid and a long-acting bronchodilator used to prevent bronchospasm in people with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

  Symbicort combines an inhaled corticosteroid drug, budesonide and LABA, formoterol.

  • Inhaled corticosteroids help reduce inflammation in the lungs. Inflammation of the lungs can lead to breathing problems.
  • LABAs are used in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma. LABA medications help the muscles around the airways in the lungs stay relaxed to prevent symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can occur when the muscles around the airways tighten. This makes breathing difficult. In severe cases, wheezing can stop your breathing and lead to death if not treated right away.

  What drugs interact with Dupixent?

  Dupixent may interact with:

  • live vaccines
  • ,
  • warfarin or
  • cyclosporine

  Which drugs interact with Symbicort?

  Symbicort may interact with antibiotics, antifungals, MAO inhibitors, antidepressants, beta-blockers, or diuretics (diuretics). Tell your doctor about all medicines you are taking. During pregnancy, Symbicort should only be used as directed. Budesonide passes into breast milk. It is not known whether formoterol passes milk into the breast. Check with your doctor before breastfeeding.

  How should I take Dupixent?

  The recommended dose of Dupixent is an initial dose of 600 mg. mg (two injections of 300 mg at different injection sites), then 300 mg every two weeks.

  How should I take Symbicort?

  For patients 12 years of age and older, the dose of Symbicort is 2 puffs twice a day (morning and evening about 12 hours apart).

  Disclaimer

  All drug information provided on RxList.com is obtained directly from drug monographs published by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

  Any drug information published on RxList.com regarding general drug information, drug side effects, drug use, dosage, etc. is derived from the original drug documentation found in his FDA drug monograph.

  The drug information found in the drug comparisons published on RxList.com is primarily derived from the FDA drug information. The drug comparison information contained in this article does not contain data from human or animal clinical trials conducted by any of the drug manufacturers comparing drugs.

  The drug comparison information provided does not cover every potential use, warning, drug interaction, side effect, adverse reaction or allergic reaction.