Biologics have revolutionized the treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) in adults, offering targeted therapy to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are the top 10 biologics commonly used for treating EoE:
- Reslizumab (Cinqair): This biologic targets interleukin-5, a protein involved in the production and activation of eosinophils, the white blood cells that play a key role in EoE. By reducing eosinophil levels, reslizumab can help decrease inflammation in the esophagus and improve symptoms.
- Mepolizumab (Nucala): Another biologic that targets interleukin-5, mepolizumab has been shown to reduce eosinophil levels and improve symptoms in adults with EoE. It is administered via subcutaneous injection once every 4 weeks.
- Benralizumab (Fasenra): This biologic targets the interleukin-5 receptor on eosinophils, leading to their depletion and a reduction in inflammation in the esophagus. Benralizumab is administered via subcutaneous injection once every 8 weeks.
- Dupilumab (Dupixent): Dupilumab targets interleukin-4 and interleukin-13, two proteins involved in the inflammatory response in EoE. By blocking these proteins, dupilumab can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and improve symptoms.
- Tralokinumab: This biologic targets interleukin-13, a key driver of inflammation in EoE. Tralokinumab has shown promising results in clinical trials for adults with EoE, with improvements in symptoms and reductions in eosinophil levels.
- Lebrikizumab: Another biologic that targets interleukin-13, lebrikizumab has shown efficacy in reducing eosinophil levels and improving symptoms in adults with EoE. Clinical trials are ongoing to further evaluate its safety and effectiveness.
- Fezakinumab: Fezakinumab targets interleukin-22, a cytokine that has been implicated in the pathogenesis of EoE. By blocking interleukin-22, fezakinumab may help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in adults with EoE.
- IL-13 Inhibitors: Several biologics that target interleukin-13 are currently being investigated for their potential in treating EoE in adults. These include anrukinzumab, tralokinumab, and lebrikizumab, which have shown promise in early clinical trials.
- Anti-Siglec-8 Antibodies: Siglec-8 is a protein found on the surface of eosinophils that plays a role in their activation and survival. Biologics that target Siglec-8, such as AK002 and AK002-201, are being studied for their potential in treating EoE in adults.
- Anti-IL-5R Antibodies: Biologics that target the interleukin-5 receptor on eosinophils, such as benralizumab and lebrikizumab, are being investigated for their potential in treating EoE in adults. By blocking the interleukin-5 receptor, these biologics can help reduce eosinophil levels and inflammation in the esophagus.
It's important to consult with a gastroenterologist or allergist to determine the most appropriate biologic therapy for your individual case of EoE. Biologics can offer a targeted approach to managing symptoms and improving quality of life for adults with this chronic inflammatory condition.