Infusion Therapy for Asthma in Baltimore, MD

Asthma, a chronic respiratory disease, is characterized by inflammation in the lungs and narrowing of the airways, which leads to recurrent episodes of wheezing, coughing, and difficulty breathing. At Jean Walter Infusions, we are exploring infusion therapy as a novel approach to directly address the root causes of this condition, going beyond the management of symptoms offered by traditional inhalers and oral medications.

Infusion therapy involves administering biological medications directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line. At our practice, we use medicines to specifically target and inhibit the molecules responsible for inflammation in asthma, thereby addressing the underlying causes of this chronic disease.

Mechanisms of Action

The biologics used in our infusion therapy for asthma aim to target different aspects of the immune system’s involvement in the disease process:

• Anti-immunoglobulin E (IgE) therapy: Our use of anti-IgE biologics, such as Omalizumab, aims to block the binding of IgE to immune cells, preventing the release of inflammatory mediators like histamine that cause airway constriction.
• Anti-interleukin-5 (IL-5) therapy: By using anti-IL-5 biologics, like Mepolizumab and Reslizumab, we aim to neutralize IL-5, reducing the number of eosinophils and their inflammatory effects.
• Anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) therapy: Our anti-TNF-alpha biologics inhibit the action of TNF-alpha, decreasing airway inflammation.

We believe that infusion therapy offers several advantages in managing asthma:

• Targeted approach: We use biologics that specifically target the underlying immune mechanisms driving asthma, offering more effective symptom control and disease modification than traditional methods.
• Regulation of an overreactive immune response: Our infusion therapy can help regulate this response by blocking specific pathways that lead to inflammation and bronchoconstriction, reducing the frequency and severity of asthma attacks.
• Long-term benefits: Our biologics have a sustained effect on the immune system, which leads to improved asthma control over time.
• Reduction in exacerbations: Regular infusion therapy can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of asthma exacerbations, improving the overall quality of life of our patients.
• Personalized treatment: We tailor biologics to individual patients based on their specific immune profile, ensuring optimal treatment outcomes.

Asthma infusion therapy targets specific cells and pathways responsible for the inflammation and constriction of airways in asthma patients.

This type of treatment is typically recommended for severe asthma cases that have not responded to traditional treatments such as inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting bronchodilators, and other controller medications.

To be eligible for asthma infusion therapy, patients must meet several criteria:

1. Severe Asthma and Lack of Response to Conventional Treatment

Patients with a diagnosis of severe asthma characterized by frequent severe exacerbations requiring emergency care or hospitalization, or those who have severe symptoms that interfere with daily activities despite optimal management with standard treatments, may be considered for this treatment.

2. Age and Overall Health

Typically, individuals must be 18 years of age or older to be considered for this therapy. Most biologic therapies are approved for use in adults and some for children above the age of six.

3. Co-existing Conditions

We consider co-existing conditions such as COPD, cystic fibrosis, or allergic rhinitis in our decision-making process for Asthma Infusion Therapy.

We believe in thorough patient evaluation and consultation. Our healthcare professionals will conduct a detailed review of your medical history, symptoms, lung function tests, and specific tests such as blood tests or sputum tests to determine if asthma infusion therapy is a suitable treatment option for you.

Infusion therapy for patients with asthma involves a complex process of determining the appropriate dosage to ensure optimal response while mitigating potential side effects.

Patient’s Weight: The patient’s weight is a crucial factor in determining the dose for infusion therapy. We ensure that accurate weight measurements are taken, particularly for children, whose weight can vary significantly.

Severity of Asthma: We assess the severity of a patient’s asthma, including the frequency and intensity of attacks. This is vital in determining the necessary dosage.

Overall Health and Other Medications: We also assess the patient’s overall health status, lung function, and any other medications they may be taking. These factors can interact with the asthma medication, making it necessary to adjust the dosage.

Age and Side Effects: Understanding that age can influence how one metabolizes medication, we consider the patient’s age in our dosing decisions. We are also attentive to any significant side effects a patient might be experiencing, and we may adjust the dosage or change the medication if necessary.

Response to Previous Treatments: We review a patient’s history of response to other asthma medications, such as inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators. This information helps us predict the likely effectiveness of infusion therapy and guide the initial dose selection.

Dose Titration and Individualized Approach: We typically start infusion therapy at a low dose, gradually increasing it as tolerated. We conduct regular assessments of lung function, symptoms, and side effects to ensure optimal dosing and effectiveness.

We understand that determining the right dose for asthma infusion therapy involves considering a range of factors, from the patient’s weight to their response to previous treatments.

At Jean Walter Infusion Center, our team works tirelessly to ensure that our patients receive a personalized treatment plan that best suits their needs and promotes their health and well-being. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online now! We are conveniently located at 724 Maiden Choice Lane, Baltimore, MD 21228. We serve patients from Baltimore MD, Halethrope MD, Ferndale MD, Dundalk MD, Yorktown MD, and surrounding areas.