Anti-IL-5 receptor antibody (Benralizumab)

Abstract

Benralizumab is an anti-IL-5Rα antibody, and has a potent eosinophil-suppressing effect through two different actions, i.e., an IL-5 receptor-mediated action and the induction of eosinophil apoptosis through ADCC activity. In various clinical trials, in patients with eosinophilia, the effect of suppressing exacerbation of asthma, improving respiratory function, and reducing the amount of systemic steroids was observed. Side effects are no different from other biologics. Although there is no self-injection formulation, it is characterized by a long dosing interval of 8 weeks during the maintenance phase. In Japan, benralizumab is not indicated for children, but is indicated for adults. It is a drug that is considered for administration to patients with refractory asthma in adults who have type II inflammation and who have eosinophilia.