Nucala Special Precautions

Traceability: In order to improve the traceability of biological medicinal products, the name and the batch number of the administered product should be clearly recorded.
Asthma exacerbations: Nucala should not be used to treat acute asthma exacerbations.
Asthma-related adverse symptoms or exacerbations may occur during treatment. Patients should be instructed to seek medical advice if their asthma remains uncontrolled or worsens after initiation of treatment.
Corticosteroids: Abrupt discontinuation of corticosteroids after initiation of Nucala therapy is not recommended. Reduction in corticosteroid doses, if required, should be gradual and performed under the supervision of a physician.
Hypersensitivity and administration-related reactions: Acute and delayed systemic reactions, including hypersensitivity reactions (e.g. anaphylaxis, urticaria, angioedema, rash, bronchospasm, hypotension), have occurred following administration of Nucala. These reactions generally occur within hours of administration, but in some instances have a delayed onset (i.e., typically within several days). These reactions may occur for the first time after a long duration of treatment (see Adverse Reactions). In the event of a hypersensitivity reaction, appropriate treatment as clinically indicated should be initiated.
Parasitic infections: Eosinophils may be involved in the immunological response to some helminth infections. Patients with pre-existing helminth infections should be treated before starting therapy. If patients become infected whilst receiving treatment with mepolizumab and do not respond to anti-helminth treatment, temporary discontinuation of therapy should be considered.
Organ-threatening or life-threatening EGPA: Nucala has not been studied in patients with organ-threatening or life-threatening manifestations of EGPA (see Dosage & Administration).
Life-threatening HES: Nucala has not been studied in patients with life-threatening manifestations of HES (see Dosage & Administration).
Effects on ability to drive and use machines: Nucala has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive and use machines.
Pre-filled pen: Excipients: This medicinal product contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per 100 mg dose, that is to say essentially "sodium-free".