Understanding Biologics

This post was written by: Amanda Atkinson, MSN, RN.

If you or someone you love is living with COPD, you may have heard about new treatment options called biologics. If you are already using inhalers every day and still having flare-ups, biologics may work for you.

What is a Biologic?

Most medicines are made with chemicals in a lab, but biologics are different. A biologic is a type of medicine that is made from a living source, like cells or proteins.¹ Biologics for COPD are usually given as a shot once or twice a month.

How do they help?

Instead of just treating your symptoms, they work in your body to stop the cause of inflammation. Biologics are different from other medicines like inhalers, which work broadly in the lungs to reduce swelling. They are made to block certain signals in your body that may be causing flare-ups. They do not replace inhalers or other medications but are added when those medications alone are not enough to control symptoms.

How do I know if I need a biologic?

Not every person with COPD needs a biologic. They are often used in people with "type 2 inflammation." This is a certain kind of swelling that is often linked to high white blood cells called eosinophils.² Biologics may help reduce the number of COPD flare-ups. This can mean fewer trips to the hospital and better quality of life. They may also improve breathing symptoms, helping you to feel less winded.^3,4

Talk to your doctor about biologics if you:⁵

• Have moderate to severe COPD.
• Have frequent COPD flare-ups even while using your inhalers correctly.
• Have higher than normal eosinophils on a blood test.
• Have signs of both asthma and COPD.
• Are already on triple therapy (inhalers with three medicines in them).

How do I get biologics?

Biologics are not over-the-counter medicines, and they are not filled at a regular neighborhood pharmacy. They most often come from a specialty pharmacy. These pharmacies have special equipment to store the medications correctly, keeping them cold. Once your doctor writes the prescription, the pharmacy will work with your insurance company to get all of the information needed for coverage. Sometimes this process takes time. If the medication is approved, the pharmacy will contact you to schedule a home delivery. The medicine is sent to you in a box that will keep it cold.

Where can I go if I have questions?

Biologics are offering new options for COPD care. While these treatments may not be for everyone, they are offering hope and a way forward. If you are wondering if biologics is right for you, talk to your health care team. Your pulmonologist or primary care doctor can help answer any questions you may have and order any blood tests needed. They can also go over your symptoms and history to figure out if a biologic is right for you.

Check out these resources from the COPD Foundation to learn more about biologics.

• Changing the Way We Treat COPD: What You Need to Know About Biologics: In this webinar, Dr. Mannino explains the basics of biologics and answers common questions from the community.
• COPD Foundation Podcast: In this episode, we break down one of the most frustrating challenges facing people living with COPD and other chronic conditions: navigating the healthcare system to access advanced treatments.
• Medicare Mondays: This YouTube playlist has recorded webinars and short videos to help you understand and use Medicare.