Mepolizumab consists of the active ingredient Mepolizumab. It belongs to a class of drugs called monoclonal antibodies. This medication treats certain respiratory conditions, particularly severe eosinophilic asthma and eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), also known as Churg-Strauss syndrome. Severe eosinophilic asthma is characterized by high levels of eosinophils (type of white blood cell) in the airways, leading to recurrent asthma attacks despite regular treatment. Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) is a rare autoimmune disease that causes inflammation of blood vessels and the infiltration of eosinophils into various organs, resulting in respiratory symptoms, systemic manifestations, and potential organ damage. Mepolizumab, marketed under the brand name Nucala, received its initial approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on November 4, 2015.

Mepolizumab treats Eosinophilic asthma and Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA).

Mepolizumab is given as an injection by healthcare professionals. The dosage and duration of treatment will depend on the individual's condition and response to the medication and should be determined by a healthcare provider.

Mepolizumab, like any medication, can have side effects. Common side effects may include headache, injection site reactions (such as pain, redness, or swelling), back pain, and fatigue. Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. In some cases, patients may experience increased risk of certain infections, such as respiratory tract infections.

Mepolizumab carries several important warnings, including the potential for severe allergic reactions or anaphylaxis, increased risk of parasitic infections and herpes zoster (shingles), careful corticosteroid dose reduction, and the possibility of asthma-related events. Additionally, it may impact vaccine effectiveness, increase the risk of respiratory infections, and affect the immune system.

Specific precautions should be taken in pediatric, pregnant, and nursing populations. It is crucial to discuss these warnings with your healthcare professional to understand the potential risks and benefits of mepolizumab treatment fully.

Attend all scheduled appointments and follow-up visits to monitor your response to treatment and address any concerns or side effects. Tell your doctor about your medical history, any previous infection, liver disease, and kidney disease. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe allergic reactions or other serious side effects. Avoid close contact with an infected person. Do not change your mepolizumab treatment or corticosteroid dose without consulting your healthcare professional. Inform your doctor's provider. Avoid taking any vaccines during treatment. The safety and efficacy in children below six years of age group have not been established.

1. Goodman & Gilman’s, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 12th edition, 2011,1044-1046.
2. Glaxo Smith Kline, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [ Revised on 16 November 2022], [ Accessed on 30th May 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/10563/pil
3. GlaxoSmithKline LLC, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on June 2019] [ Accessed on 30th May 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2019/761122s000lbl.pdf 

The drug information on this page is different from medical advice. It is meant for educational purposes only. For further details, consult your doctor about your medical condition to know if you can receive this treatment.