Plasma Half-Life of Dupixent (Dupilumab)
The terminal elimination half-life of dupilumab is approximately 21 days (3 weeks). 1
Pharmacokinetic Context
Dupilumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody that binds to the IL-4 receptor alpha subunit, blocking both IL-4 and IL-13 signaling pathways. 2, 3
The approximately 21-day half-life is consistent with other monoclonal antibodies and is considerably longer than small molecule drugs. 1
This extended half-life allows for convenient dosing schedules in clinical practice. 1
Clinical Implications of the Half-Life
The long half-life of dupilumab enables dosing every 2 weeks (q2w) for maintenance therapy, which has been the FDA-approved regimen. 4
Based on standard pharmacokinetic principles, it takes approximately 5 half-lives to reach steady-state concentrations, meaning dupilumab reaches steady state after approximately 16-20 weeks of regular dosing. 1, 5
Similarly, complete drug elimination after discontinuation would take approximately 16-20 weeks (5 half-lives). 1, 5
Clinical studies have demonstrated that patients can successfully transition from weekly (qw) to every-other-week (q2w) dosing while maintaining efficacy, which is supported by the drug's long half-life. 4
Comparative Context
Dupilumab's 21-day half-life is substantially longer than most other therapeutic agents, including anticoagulants like dabigatran (14-17 hours), rivaroxaban (5-13 hours), and apixaban (12 hours). 6
The half-life is similar to other monoclonal antibodies used in chronic inflammatory conditions, such as ustekinumab (also approximately 21 days). 1
This extended half-life provides sustained IL-4Rα blockade, with studies showing complete receptor blockade maintained through 52 weeks of treatment. 7