Biologic Medications in Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology

Biologic medications are a type of treatment used for certain allergic and immune-related conditions. They are also called monoclonal antibodies. These medicines are made from proteins and are designed to work with the body’s immune system in a very targeted way. At Asthma & Allergy Physicians (AAP), biologics are an important option for patients whose symptoms are not well controlled with standard treatments.

Traditional medications, such as inhalers, pills, or creams, often treat symptoms but do not always address the cause of inflammation. Biologics work differently. They target specific signals in the immune system that cause swelling, irritation, and allergic reactions. By blocking these signals, biologics help calm the immune system and reduce long-term inflammation.

Biologic medications are usually given as an injection under the skin. Some are given every two weeks, while others are given once a month or even less often. Depending on the medication, injections may be given at home or in the office. These treatments are meant to be taken long-term and are carefully monitored by your provider at AAP.

Conditions We Treat with Biologic Medications

Moderate to Severe Asthma
Biologics are often used for patients with moderate to severe asthma who continue to have symptoms despite daily inhalers. These medications can reduce asthma attacks, improve breathing, and decrease the need for oral steroids such as prednisone. Many patients also notice fewer emergency visits and a better quality of life. This is available to patients 6 years and older.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)
For patients with moderate to severe eczema, biologics can reduce itching, redness, and skin inflammation. This can lead to better sleep, fewer skin infections, and improved comfort when topical treatments alone are not enough. This treatment is available to patients 6 months of age and older.

Chronic Sinus Disease With Nasal Polyps
Some patients have long-lasting sinus inflammation that leads to nasal polyps. These polyps can cause congestion, sinus pressure, and loss of smell. Biologics help reduce inflammation and shrink polyps, which may improve breathing and decrease sinus infections. This treatment is available to patients 12 years and older.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic allergic condition of the esophagus. It can cause difficulty swallowing, food getting stuck, chest pain, and feeding problems in children and affects patients of all ages. Biologic medications can reduce eosinophils and inflammation in the esophagus, helping protect the esophagus and improve symptoms. This treatment is available for patients one year and older.

Chronic Hives (Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria)
Chronic hives cause daily or frequent itching and swelling, often without a known trigger. Biologics can help control the immune response that leads to hives and can greatly reduce itching and flare-ups when antihistamines are not enough. This treatment is available for patients 12 years and older.

Hypereosinophilic Syndrome (HES)
HES is a very rare condition where the body makes too many eosinophils, which can damage organs over time. Biologics can lower eosinophil levels and help prevent complications from ongoing inflammation. This treatment is available to patients 12 years and older.

Food Allergy
In certain patients, biologics may be used to help reduce allergic reactions to foods. These medications can lower the risk of severe reactions and may be used along with other treatments under close medical supervision. At AAP we also use biologics to help aid us in successful oral immunotherapy desensitization. This treatment is available to patients one year and older.

Common Biologic Medications

Some biologic medications commonly used in allergy and asthma care include Dupixent, Tezspire, Xolair, Nucala, Fasenra, Cinqair, Adbry, Ebglyss and Nemluvio. Each medication works in a slightly different way, and not every biologic is right for every condition. Your provider will help choose the best option based on your symptoms, test results, and medical history. As new biologic medications are approved each year, healthcare providers have more options to provide precise, personalized care for patients.

Safety and Monitoring

Biologic medications have been studied in large clinical trials and are considered safe and effective for many patients. The most common side effects are mild, such as redness or soreness at the injection site. Patients are followed closely by our team to make sure the medication is working well and to monitor for side effects. Your provider will review all of the potential side effects prior to starting therapy to make sure this treatment is right for you. Biologics have no drug-to-drug interactions and are not processed through the kidney or liver.

Is a Biologic Right for You?

Biologics are usually recommended when symptoms are not well controlled with standard therapies. At Asthma & Allergy Physicians, we take time to review your condition, testing, and treatment goals to decide if a biologic medication is appropriate for you. Our goal is to reduce symptoms, prevent flares, and help you live a healthier, more comfortable life. If you would like to learn more about biologic therapy, please speak with your provider at your next visit.