Dupixent (Dupilumab) for Prurigo Nodularis

Overview
Dupixent is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of prurigo nodularis (PN) in adults. This medication may be prescribed for individuals whose PN does not improve with standard topical or systemic treatments. Dupixent is also known by its drug name, dupilumab.

Dupixent is a biologic drug that works by inhibiting the activity of interleukin-4 (IL-4) receptors. This action is thought to reduce inflammation and immune response that contribute to the development and persistence of PN nodules.

How do I take it?
Prescribing information states that Dupixent is administered as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection. For prurigo nodularis, a larger initial dose is generally given, followed by a maintenance dose every other week. Dupixent should be administered exactly as prescribed by a health care provider.

Side effects
Common side effects of Dupixent include nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nasal passages and throat), conjunctivitis (eye inflammation), herpes infections, dizziness, muscle pain, and diarrhea.

Rare but serious side effects may include hypersensitivity reactions (such as anaphylaxis or severe allergic responses), conjunctivitis and keratitis (types of eye inflammation), worsening joint pain, and eosinophilic conditions (a group of conditions related to an elevated white blood cell count). 

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Label: Dupixent — Dupilumab Injection, Solution — DailyMed