See why thousands of patients choose our centers as their preferred destination for ongoing care, including Tezspire Injection treatments.
Tezspire is a biologic therapy that is indicated to treat:
- Adult and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with severe asthma
What is Tezspire?
What is Tezspire?
Tezepelumab-ekko is a synthetic protein that is created by cloning a unique white blood cell (WBC). These synthetic proteins are referred to as human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs).
Just like the proteins in the natural immune system, mAbs have specific targets. Tezspire targets the key epithelial cell derived cytokine, thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP). By blocking TSLP, the immune cells do not release the pro-inflammatory cytokines. Without the release of these cytokines, the lungs do not become inflamed, thus, preventing the onset of an asthma attack.
Tezspire (tezepelumab-ekko) is the only medication approved as a severe asthma treatment that is not restricted to a particular type of asthma. This prescription medicine is used in conjunction with other asthma medications for the maintenance treatment of severe asthma. It is important to note that Tezspire is not considered a rescue medication.
Tezspire Injection Dosage & Administration
Tezspire Injection Administration and Dosing
Tezepelumab-ekko is available in a pre-filled syringe and in a vial. Both containers contain 210 mg of tezepelumab-ekko. Patients receive 210 mg of Tezspire once a month (or every 4 weeks).
A medical professional at IVX Health administers the patient’s tezepelumab-ekko injection. Acceptable injection locations include the thigh, upper arm, and abdomen — abdominal injections must be made at least 2 inches (ca. 5 centimeters) away from the area surrounding the navel.
Injection sites must not be bruised, hardened, or flushed. In addition, any area of skin that is tender must also be disqualified as an appropriate area for administering the injection. Furthermore, the site of injection must vary — rotating between the acceptable locations for injection with each visit.
If a patient misses a dose of tezepelumab-ekko, he or she needs to receive that dose as soon as possible. Afterwards, the patient continues his or her dosing schedule as before. If the next dose is already due, it should be administered as planned.
Tezspire Side Effects
Tezspire Side Effects
As with all medications, tezepelumab-ekko has potential side effects that patients need to watch for.
Common side effects include:
- Back pain
- Arthralgia (joint pain)
- Pharyngitis (sore throat)
- Redness and/or pain at the injection site
Side effects of a severe allergic reaction to Tezspire include:
- Hives/rash
- Difficulty breathing
- Itchy, red or swollen eyes
Patients who experience any of the severe allergic reactions listed above need to seek emergency medical care. These symptoms can begin within hours of administration; however, on rare occasions these reactions become evident several days after administration.
If the patient is still at IVX Health when symptoms arise, he or she should inform a nurse right away. After considering the benefits and risks to a patient who experiences hypersensitivity to this medication, the physician determines whether to continue treatment with Tezspire.
Preparing for Your Tezspire Injection
Follow these steps to prepare for your Tezspire Injection:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider
- Medical History Review: Ensure your healthcare provider has a complete and up-to-date medical history, including any allergies, current medications, and past reactions to Injection.
- Pre-Injection Testing: Complete any required blood tests or other pre-Injection tests as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Pre-Injection Medications
- Prescription Pre-Medications: Your Tezspire Injection may require pre-medications to reduce the risk of a reaction or adverse event. Your referring provider will include any pre-medications when sending in your prescription order.
- Instructions: Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding these medications, including the timing and dosage. Take these medications about 30-60 minutes before the Injection as directed.
Hydration and Nutrition
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your Injection to ensure you are well-hydrated.
- Eat Light: Have a light meal before your Injection to help maintain your energy levels during the procedure.
Prepare for Comfort
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your arms for the Injection site.
- Entertainment: Bring something to keep you occupied, such as a book, tablet, or music, as your treatment or observation period may take several hours.
Plan for Transportation
- Arrange a Ride: Depending on the medication and your reaction to the Injection, you might not feel well enough to drive yourself home. Consider arranging for someone to drive you or use a ride service.
By following these steps, you can help ensure that your Tezspire Injection is as safe and comfortable as possible. Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team.
How to Get a Referral for Tezspire
Every Tezspire Injection referral must be accompanied by a physician’s order for treatment.
Patient information should include:
- Name
- Current address
- Home and mobile phone number
- Insurance information
Information the physician must include on the patient’s order for therapy:
- Patient’s name and DOB
- Order date
- Diagnosis
- Physician’s name and NPI#
- Office address, phone, and fax numbers
- Provider’s signature
Clinical documentation from the physician should include information to support a diagnosis for one or more of the following:
- Adult and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with severe asthma
If you or someone you care about has one of the conditions that Tezspire treats, IVX Health would be honored to provide your care. To find an IVX Health center near you, please click here.
Patients choose IVX Health for ongoing Tezspire treatments because:
- ALL private suites
- Comfortable recliners, with chairs for guests
- Evening & weekend appointments
- Friendly clinical staff deliver personal service
- Big screen TVs, high-speed WiFi, free snacks
Interested in moving your care to IVX Health?
Interested?
IVX Health would love to learn more about your care needs. If you’re interested in switching your infusion services – or if you just want to learn more – let us know.