Can Tezepelumab be given to the elderly to manage asthma?

Question

Hello doctor,

Asthma suddenly got worse in my 70s despite lifelong management. I am using nebulizer treatments three times daily now and still struggling. I had to move in with my daughter due to breathing difficulties. The pulmonologist is suggesting Tezspire, but I am concerned about my age. Current medications include multiple inhalers, Theophylline, and still having daily symptoms. Recent hospitalization required BiPAP support. I also have a COPD component, making treatment complicated. Would Tezspire be safe for me at my age? How would it interact with my heart medications? Any elderly patients showing improvements without complications?

Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Tezspire (Tezepelumab) is a subcutaneous injection. Keeping in mind your age and the daily struggle you are going through, here are a few things you should know:

Have there been studies on its effectiveness in patients?

Yes, there have been studies indicating improvement in patients suffering from severe asthma irrespective of their age (note studies done in the age group between 12 to 80 years). Research papers are available for you to study as well, you can look it up.

Will one need to stay on Tezspire indefinitely, or is there a chance they could stop treatment if their asthma improves?

It is not an indefinite treatment course. Usually you can expect your treating doctor to prescribe it for a duration of one year, in case they feel there is better improvement than they expected. They might want to give longer gaps or shorter courses. One to two years for what they might aim at.

On the other hand as you embark on this journey also be informed what to expect by discussing with the doctor in charge regarding the side effects. Yes, at your age of 81 years, it will be much more pronounced, especially joint pain.

Some basics regarding what to expect for your awareness are that once they start on Tezspire:

Pharyngitis (sore throat).
Arthralgia (sore joints) at your age is the one that will trouble you the most.
Back pain.
Injection-site reactions.
Headaches.
Regarding the interaction with your cardiac medicine -Yes, there are few effects that only your treating doctor will take a call on with dosage modification and how to manage.

Tezspire is indicated mainly in severe asthma patients with uncontrolled symptoms even on steroids, hence, your treating doctor is the one who can decide whether you are in that category who needs to receive these weekly injections.

All these do come with side effects other than what is mentioned above; hence, sit down with your treating doctor's team and be well-informed before embarking on the journey.

Any elderly patients showing improvements without complications?

I, as a medical professional cannot give you a false assurance regarding this. Each patient has their own difficult journey when started on this medicine.

I hope this has helped you.

Please feel free to reach out to me again if you have further queries.

Thank you.