10 Biologics Used in the Treatment of Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Biologics have revolutionized the treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a chronic inflammatory condition of the esophagus that can cause symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and food impaction. These medications target specific molecules in the immune system to help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms in patients with EoE.

Here are 10 biologics that are commonly used in the treatment of EoE:

  1. Mepolizumab (Nucala): This monoclonal antibody targets interleukin-5, a molecule that plays a key role in the production and activation of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that is elevated in EoE.
  2. Reslizumab (Cinqair): Another monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin-5, reslizumab can help reduce eosinophil levels in the esophagus and improve symptoms of EoE.
  3. Benralizumab (Fasenra): This biologic targets the interleukin-5 receptor on eosinophils, leading to their depletion and a reduction in inflammation in the esophagus.
  4. Dupilumab (Dupixent): Dupilumab targets interleukin-4 and interleukin-13, two molecules that are involved in the inflammatory response in EoE.
  5. Omalizumab (Xolair): This monoclonal antibody targets immunoglobulin E (IgE), a molecule that is involved in allergic responses that can trigger EoE symptoms.
  6. Anti-IL-13 Therapy (Tralokinumab): Tralokinumab is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the activity of interleukin-13, a molecule that is thought to play a key role in the pathogenesis of EoE.
  7. Anti-TSLP Therapy (Tezepelumab): Tezepelumab targets thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), a molecule that is involved in the initiation of the allergic response in EoE.
  8. Anti-Siglec-8 Therapy (AK002): AK002 is a monoclonal antibody that targets Siglec-8, a protein found on eosinophils that can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus.
  9. Anti-IL-4 Therapy (Pascolizumab): Pascolizumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets interleukin-4, a molecule that is involved in the inflammatory response in EoE.
  10. Anti-IL-5 Therapy (Benralizumab): In addition to targeting the interleukin-5 receptor, benralizumab can also target interleukin-5 itself to help reduce eosinophil levels in the esophagus.

These biologics can be used alone or in combination with other medications to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for patients with EoE. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for each individual patient based on their specific symptoms and medical history.