What Are Biologics? A Quick Overview

If the idea of biologic treatment sounds a bit futuristic, that’s because they’re part of the latest advancements in allergy care. Here’s what you need to know:

What Exactly are Biologics?

These remarkable medications are laboratory-created proteins that mimic substances naturally found in your body. They’re designed with a clear goal: to intercept and neutralize the exact molecules responsible for your allergic reactions.

Biologic Treatments We Offer

We’re proud to provide a range of biologic pharmaceuticals tailored to your needs:

• Xolair® (omalizumab): Targets IgE—those pesky antibodies triggering your reactions to everyday allergens like dust mites and pollen
• Nucala® (mepolizumab): Focuses on taming eosinophils, overactive white blood cells that can cause chaos in the airways
• Fasenra® (benralizumab): Targets the IL-5 receptor to reduce inflammation in severe asthma
• Dupixent® (dupilumab): Blocks inflammatory signals for asthma and eczema relief
• Tezspire® (tezepelumab-ekko): Offers a broader approach by blocking 'alarmins' to treat allergic and eosinophilic asthma

How Do They Work?

Biologics are like precision tools for your immune system. Each biologic has a unique mechanism of action, but they generally help by:

• Interfering with specific immune system pathways
• Reducing the activity of cells that cause inflammation in the body
• Modifying the immune system's overactive response to allergens

What to Expect

Biologic treatments are generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, they can come with potential side effects. Here are a few symptoms you might experience:

It’s important to listen to your body. If you experience any of these, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

The Convenience of Home Administration

Thanks to the advancements in biologics and patient care, many medications now offer the freedom of self-administration in your own home. So, what does this mean for you?

The Home Advantage: Why It Makes Sense

Take Note: Always ask your doctor or any medical professional for step-by-step procedures or tips on how to properly self-administer biologics.

Your Journey to Self-Administration

If you’re a candidate for at-home biologics, you won’t be on your own. Here’s how the experts at Premier Allergy of Texas ensure you’re safe and ready:

1. Initial Training Session: Our team provides comprehensive, hands-on training right here in our office.
2. Practice Makes Perfect: You'll practice the injection technique under our supervision until you feel confident.
3. Take-Home Resources: We provide step-by-step guides, video tutorials, and quick reference materials at your convenience.
4. Ongoing Support: Our team is available to answer questions and provide support throughout your treatment journey.

Considerations for Home Administration

While home administration of biologics offers flexibility and convenience, it’s not the right fit for everyone. 

Who’s Eligible for Home Use?

Not everyone can jump straight into home injections. To qualify, you typically need to meet these criteria:

• Stable Response to Biologics: You’ve shown consistent improvement with your prescribed treatment.
• No Severe Side Effects: Your body tolerates the medication without major complications.
• Ability to Self-Administer: You’re comfortable handling and injecting the medication after proper training.

Staying Connected with Telemedicine

Your journey with us doesn’t end when you start home treatment. Even then, we maintain close oversight through:

• Regular video check-ins with our healthcare team
• Secure messaging for quick questions
• Digital tracking of symptoms and side effects
• Remote monitoring of treatment adherence

Managing Risks and Ensuring Safety

We prioritize your safety during the transition to home administration through:

• Careful Monitoring: We evaluate your progress before approving home use, ensuring you’re ready.
• Detailed Training: Comprehensive guidance helps you feel confident about proper injection techniques.
• Ongoing Support: Whether you encounter minor issues or need reassurance, we’re always a call or a visit away.

Other Convenient Options: Personalized Care for Busy Lifestyles

Some patients prefer the reassurance of professional administration, and we're here for that!

Flexible Care Models for Biologics

Not everyone’s schedule or preferences are the same, and that’s okay! Here’s how we make biologic treatments work for you:

• In-Office Administration:
  Do you prefer hands-on care? Our clinic offers professional guidance during every injection. This is ideal if:
• You’re just starting biologic therapy.
• You feel more comfortable with direct medical supervision.
  
  
• Hybrid Care Plans:
  Looking for a balance? Hybrid plans allow you to combine in-office and at-home options. This provides flexibility while ensuring you stay connected with your care team.
  
  
• On-Demand Care:
  Patients can schedule appointments for biologic administration as needed, allowing them to align treatment with their availability.

We take the time to understand your lifestyle, health goals, and preferences to craft a care plan that’s just right for you. Managing your allergy symptoms shouldn’t add stress to your life—it should fit seamlessly into it.

From Evaluation to Treatment, We’ve Got You Covered

If you’re just exploring biologics for the first time or looking for a treatment plan that fits your style, Premier Allergy of Texas is here to guide you every step of the way!

As the trusted allergy specialist in San Antonio, we specialize in innovative treatments, such as biologics, designed to target the root causes of allergies and asthma. With options like Xolair, Nucala, and more, we offer advanced solutions to help you breathe easier and live better.

You’re more than a patient—we treat you as an individual. Our care process includes: 

• Thorough Evaluations: We take the time to understand your unique needs, symptoms, and health history.
• Education on Biologics: Knowledge is power. We’ll ensure you feel confident about your treatment options and what to expect.
• Ongoing Support: We provide continuous guidance and support whether you choose home administration, in-office care, or a hybrid plan.

Ready to explore a personalized approach to your Texas allergens? Schedule a consultation with Premier Allergy of Texas today. Let us help you find the right treatment to control your allergies and improve your life.

Breathe Easier, Live Better