A patient with severe asthma not controlled on ICS-LABA is started on a biologic. It is a monoclonal antibody that blocks IL-5 signaling, reducing eosinophil survival and proliferation. Which drug is this?

• A Omalizumab
• B Dupilumab
• C Benralizumab
• D Mepolizumab ✓

Explanation

Mepolizumab and reslizumab are anti-IL-5 monoclonal antibodies that block IL-5 from binding to its receptor, reducing eosinophil proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Benralizumab targets the IL-5 receptor alpha (IL-5Rα) directly, causing rapid eosinophil depletion via ADCC. Omalizumab targets IgE and is used in allergic (IgE-mediated) severe asthma. Dupilumab blocks IL-4Rα, inhibiting both IL-4 and IL-13 signaling (used in atopic dermatitis and eosinophilic/Type 2 asthma).

Reference: KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.