For years, nasal polyps were treated with steroids and surgery, but many patients experienced regrowth and persistent symptoms. Now, biologic medications are revolutionizing nasal polyp treatment, offering long-term relief without the need for repeated surgeries. Let’s explore how biologics work and who can benefit from them.
What Are Biologics?
Biologics are targeted therapies that block specific inflammatory pathways involved in chronic sinus inflammation and nasal polyps. Unlike steroids, which suppress the immune system broadly, biologics work precisely to stop the overactive immune response that causes polyps to grow.
FDA-Approved Biologics for Nasal Polyps
Several biologics are now available for patients with severe, recurrent nasal polyps:
- Dupilumab (Dupixent)
- Blocks IL-4 and IL-13, two key inflammatory molecules.
- Reduces polyp size, improves breathing, and restores the sense of smell.
- Given as an injection every 2 weeks.
- Omalizumab (Xolair)
- Targets IgE, a key player in allergic inflammation.
- Best for patients with nasal polyps and allergic asthma.
- Administered as an injection every 2–4 weeks.
- Mepolizumab (Nucala) & Benralizumab (Fasenra)
- Reduce eosinophils, a type of white blood cell that drives polyp growth.
- Used primarily for eosinophilic asthma but may benefit nasal polyps.
Who Should Consider Biologics?
Biologics may be a great option if you have: ✔️ Severe nasal polyps that don’t respond to steroids.
✔️ Frequent sinus infections and loss of smell.
✔️ A history of multiple polyp surgeries with regrowth.
✔️ Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease (AERD) or eosinophilic sinusitis.
✔️ Uncontrolled asthma along with nasal polyps.
How Do Biologics Compare to Traditional Treatments?
FAQ: Biologics for Nasal Polyps
Q: Are biologics a cure for nasal polyps?
A: No, but they can dramatically reduce symptoms and help prevent regrowth.
Q: How soon do biologics start working?
A: Many patients see improvement in 4–8 weeks, with full effects in a few months.
Q: Are biologics covered by insurance?
A: They are often covered for severe nasal polyps, but prior authorization may be needed.
A Personal Story
My patient, Sarah, had undergone three nasal polyp surgeries, yet her symptoms kept returning. After starting Dupixent and allergy shots, her nasal congestion and sinus infections improved drastically. For the first time in years, she could smell and breathe freely without constant steroids or surgery.
If nasal polyps are severely impacting your quality of life, biologics may offer the long-term relief you’ve been searching for. Talk to your doctor to see if they’re right for you!
What are you waiting for? If you or your child need help controlling allergies or if you think you need testing or treatment or that you might be a good candidate for allergy shots, Dr. Wendt and her team staff at Relieve Allergy, Asthma & Hives would love to help. Call for testing or treatment today!
Call 480-500-1902 or request an appointment at https://relieveallergyaz.com/contact now! Begin your allergy testing journey with Dr. Wendt at Relieve Allergy in Scottsdale, Arizona—It’s time to take care of yourself!
Learn more about Dr. Wendt and Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives at www.relieveallergyaz.com or connect with us: https://www.facebook.com/RelieveAllergy/, https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-wendt/, https://x.com/RelieveAllergy, https://www.instagram.com/relieve_allergy/ or https://www.youtube.com/@JulieWendt-qx7jm.
Did you know? Dr. Wendt wrote the book on allergies. Buy it NOW!
Relieve Allergy Asthma & Hives is located near Kierland Commons, 21803 N. Scottsdale Road Ste. 200, and has convenient evening and morning hours to accommodate your schedule. Dr. Wendt is also available for telemedicine appointments as appropriate. Most insurance plans are accepted.
DISCLAIMER: This blog is not meant to substitute for medical care by an Allergist-Immunologist nor is it intended to provide medical advice or imply a Physician-Patient relationship with its readers or their family. It is intended to provide guidance, direction, and moral support from someone experienced in testing and treating allergies. This is also not meant to be a “do-it-yourself” manual or a “how to” overcome your allergies. Some of the issues mentioned, whether allergic or look-a-like, can be dangerous or if left unchecked, deadly. Please develop a relationship with a Physician you trust to help you with diagnosis, advice, questions, and treatment regarding your and your family’s medical conditions.
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