From the Research
Benralizumab is not currently approved for the treatment of Crohn's disease and has not demonstrated established efficacy for this condition in clinical trials. Benralizumab (brand name Fasenra) is a monoclonal antibody that targets the IL-5 receptor and is primarily approved for severe eosinophilic asthma. While some research is exploring the potential of targeting eosinophils in inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's, the current evidence does not support its use in this context 1.
Current Treatment Options for Crohn's Disease
For Crohn's disease, standard treatments include:
- Corticosteroids
- Immunomodulators (azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, methotrexate)
- Biologics such as anti-TNF agents (infliximab, adalimumab), anti-integrin therapies (vedolizumab), and IL-12/23 inhibitors (ustekinumab) 2, 1
Rationale for Exploring Benralizumab in Crohn's Disease
The rationale for potentially exploring benralizumab in Crohn's would be based on the role eosinophils might play in gut inflammation for some patients, but this remains investigational. Patients with Crohn's disease should work with their gastroenterologist to determine the most appropriate FDA-approved treatment based on their disease location, severity, and individual characteristics 3, 4.
Importance of FDA-Approved Treatments
It is crucial to prioritize FDA-approved treatments for Crohn's disease, as these have undergone rigorous testing for efficacy and safety. The use of unapproved treatments, such as benralizumab for Crohn's disease, should be approached with caution and only considered in the context of clinical trials or under the guidance of a healthcare professional 5, 1.
Recent Evidence on Biologic Drugs for Crohn's Disease
A recent systematic review published in 2023 analyzed the efficacy and safety of biologic drugs in adult patients diagnosed with moderate-severe Crohn's disease. The review found that several biologic drugs, including upadacitinib, vedolizumab, adalimumab, guselkumab, mirikizumab, ustekinumab, and risankizumab, showed statistically significant efficacy across different clinical parameters 1. However, benralizumab was not included in this review as a treatment option for Crohn's disease.