Welcome to the second episode of our Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovation podcast series on biologic medications. This series is an overview of biologic therapies for asthma, allergies, eczema, chronic urticaria and other allergic conditions.
This podcast series on biologic medications is, as always, produced in partnership with The Itch Podcast. Our hosts Payel Gupta, MD, and Kortney talk with pulmonologist Cedric “Jamie” Rutland, MD. Together they debunk common myths about taking biologic medications. Are biologics safe? Do they work right away? Can anyone take them? Dr. Rutland helps answer these questions and more. You can listen to the podcast and learn about the hosts on ItchPodcast.com. The podcast can be downloaded on all major platforms for listening anytime, anywhere:
We thank Sanofi Regeneron for sponsoring this podcast. All opinions represent the views of the podcasters. Sponsorship does not influence Allergy & Asthma Network content decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.
Discover the Truth about Biologics
Biologic medications are powerful tools for treating allergic diseases like asthma and eczema. However, there are many myths and misconceptions about their use, safety, and effectiveness. This podcast addresses concerns such as whether biologics cause severe side effects, if they weaken the immune system and who can safely use them. Dr. Rutland clarifies when biologics should be considered as a treatment option. He debunks myths about whether they are only for severe cases or if patients must stay on them for life. Learn how biologics work, how safe they are, and why they might be the right choice for patients whose current treatments aren’t providing enough relief.
Key Takeaways about Biologic Medications Myths vs Facts
Biologic medications are advanced treatments that target specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation and improve symptoms of allergic diseases like asthma and eczema.
- Biologics aren’t a cure: They help manage symptoms but don’t completely cure conditions like asthma or eczema.
- Side effects, safety, and cancer risk: People often think biologics cause severe side effects or increase cancer risk, but they are safe and well-studied.
- Biologics do not work like traditional medications: Biologics actually target the immune system in a more precise way, unlike traditional treatments.
- Biologics are only for severe cases: Biologics can be used for both mild and severe symptoms, not just as a last resort.
- Biologics are always used alone: Many believe biologics replace other treatments or lifestyle changes, but they usually work alongside them.
Biologics Myths vs Facts Podcast Timestamps
- 00:56 – Introduction to Dr. Rutland
- 01:29 – Biologics help with symptoms but are not a cure – Fact!
- 02:11 – Biologics work like traditional medications – Myth!
- 03:31 – Severe side effects always happen with biologics – Myth!
- 04:03 – Biologics stop working after some time – Myth!
- 04:31 – Once you start biologics, you must stay on them forever – Learn more!
- 05:42 – Biologics are only used when other treatments don’t work – Myth!
- 06:27 – You can stop other medications when taking biologics – Myth!
- 07:21 – People with more than one health issue can’t use biologics – Myth!
- 07:54 – Biologics are only for adults – Myth!
- 08:15 – Biologics cause cancer – Myth!
- 08:38 – Biologics weaken the immune system – Myth!
- 09:12 – Doctors prescribe biologics because they get paid – Myth!
- 10:48 – Biologics work right away – Learn more!
- 11:47 – Biologics are still experimental and very risky – Myth!
- 13:19 – Biologics can only be given at a hospital or doctor’s office – Myth!
- 13:50 – Biologics are all the same and can be swapped – Myth!
- 15:30 – Only specialists can prescribe biologics – Learn more!
- 16:50 – Biologics mean you don’t need lifestyle changes – Myth!
- 17:57 – Biologics are unnecessary if your symptoms aren’t severe – Myth!
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