Can Tezepelumab weakens the immune system?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been on Tezspire for my asthma, but I have had a history of tuberculosis for the past five years, and I am concerned about how this medication might affect my condition. Although my breathing has improved since starting Tezspire, I have recently noticed increased fatigue and occasional chest discomfort. I sometimes experience a mild cough that was not present before. Could this be a sign of tuberculosis reactivation?

My appetite has decreased slightly, and I feel more tired than usual, even after getting enough rest. Since Tezspire affects the immune system, should I be worried about my tuberculosis becoming active again? I am still on maintenance therapy for tuberculosis. Are there any known interactions between my tuberculosis medications and Tezspire? Would you recommend any specific tests or monitoring to ensure my tuberculosis remains under control while taking this biologic? I have also been experiencing mild night sweats. Could this be a side effect of Tezspire or something I should be more concerned about?

Is there a possibility that Tezspire is weakening my immune system, making me more susceptible to infections? Should my tuberculosis treatment plan be adjusted now that I am on this medication? Are there any precautions I should take to minimize the risk of tuberculosis flare-ups while continuing Tezspire? I want to ensure that my asthma remains well-managed without compromising my tuberculosis recovery. Would you recommend any additional lifestyle or dietary changes to support my immune system during this treatment? I appreciate your guidance in balancing my asthma treatment with my history of tuberculosis and ensuring my overall health remains stable.

Kindly help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Immune system suppression: Tezspire, like other biologics, can suppress the immune system, which may increase the risk of tuberculosis reactivation.
Tuberculosis reactivation risk: The risk of tuberculosis reactivation is higher in patients with a history of tuberculosis, especially if they have received immunosuppressive therapy.
Monitoring and testing: Regular monitoring and testing for tuberculosis, such as chest X-rays, sputum tests, and interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs), may be necessary.

I suggest the following steps:

Close monitoring: Regularly monitor your tuberculosis status, including symptoms, laboratory tests, and imaging studies.
Asthma management: Continue the asthma plan to keep it under control.
Lifestyle and dietary changes: Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep, to support your immune system.

I suggest you undergo the below-mentioned basic tests:

Complete blood count (CBC).
Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR).
C-reactive protein (CRP).
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).
Chest X-ray.
Sputum for acid-fast bacilli (AFB).

Please let us know if you have any further queries. We would be happy to answer.

Thank you.