What are 5 key Tezspire side effects to watch out for?

Key Points

• Tezspire (Tezepelumab-ekko) is an injection that may be given as an add-on treatment for severe asthma. It’s injected under the skin once every 4 weeks.
• Common side effects of Tezspire include sore throat, joint pain, back pain, and injection-site reactions. However, these side effects were reported at a similar incidence as placebo during studies.
• Rarely, severe allergic reactions can happen hours or days after getting a dose of Tezspire.

What is Tezspire?

Tezspire (Tezepelumab-ekko) is a thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) blocker that may be used as an add-on maintenance treatment in people 12 years and older with severe asthma. Tezspire is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) once every 4 weeks.

5 side effects of Tezspire and how to manage them

Below, we’ll review 5 side effects* of Tezspire that you should watch out for. Most side effects can be managed at home, but other side effects or those that are severe may need medical attention. We’ll also review ways to treat some potential side effects at home.

1. Sore throat

Sore throat (pharyngitis) was one of the most common side effects reported by people taking Tezspire during 52-week clinical studies in people 12 years and older. It was reported by 4% of people taking Tezspire, and 3% of people taking a placebo.

Pharyngitis may be caused by a bacterial infection, viral infection, or different reason. There are a few things you can do at home to relieve throat pain.

Tips for managing sore throat

• Gargle with warm salt water
• Avoid talking more than necessary
• Drink plenty of fluids like water, warm tea with honey, and broth
• Use a cool-mist humidifier to add moisture in the air
• Try an over-the-counter pain reliever, like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or a numbing throat spray
• Suck on lozenges to keep your throat moist

Contact your prescriber if your sore throat isn’t getting better after a few days, or if you come down with a fever or other symptoms. They can make sure you get the most appropriate treatment for the cause of your sore throat.

2. Joint pain

Joint pain occurs in up to 4% of people taking Tezspire. The role Tezspire plays in causing joint pain isn’t clear. Some research has linked having asthma with a higher risk for conditions that cause joint pain, like osteoarthritis. Tell your prescriber if you have joint pain so they can help you determine the cause and recommend ways to manage the pain.

Tips for managing joint pain

• Apply cold therapy to reduce inflammation
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever, like ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• Perform exercises recommended by a physical therapist
• Take a warm bath to soothe stiff joints
• Use over-the-counter topical treatments to help relieve pain
• Rest the joints where you feel pain

Related Questions

• Does Tezspire cause weight gain?
• How do I use the Tezspire pen?
• How long does an asthma attack last?

3. Back pain

Similar to joint pain, around 4% of people taking Tezspire experience back pain. Having back pain can affect your quality of life and get in the way of performing normal daily activities. Depending on the location and how severe your back pain is, it could take days or weeks to recover.

Tips for managing back pain

• Apply heat, such as a heating pad, to soothe muscle tension
• Use an ice pack to reduce inflammation
• Try an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin)
• Wear supportive footwear to reduce strain on your back

To prevent back pain, maintain good posture by avoiding slouching or hunching over. It’s also important to use proper lifting techniques. When lifting heavy objects, bend your knees and use your leg muscles. Also, maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can cause back problems.

If you have unexplained back pain, let your prescriber know. They may want to evaluate you to determine if your back pain could be a side effect of Tezspire, or due to something else.

4. Injection-site reactions

Since Tezspire is given as an injection, it can cause reactions at and near the injection site. These reactions may include redness, swelling, pain, and itching. Most of the time, injection-site reactions can be managed at home and should only last for up to a few days.

Tips for managing injection-site reactions

• Apply a cold compress for 15 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling
• Use a topical antihistamine to relieve itching around the injection site
• Avoid tight clothing near the area where you got your injection
• Take an over-the-counter pain reliever to help with pain

Call your prescriber if you experience severe symptoms around your injection site, or if your symptoms aren’t getting better within a few days. They can check to make sure you don’t have an infection at your injection site.

5. Severe allergic reactions

Although rare, severe allergic reactions from Tezspire are possible. Symptoms can range from a rash to closing of the throat (e.g., anaphylaxis). You can have an allergic reaction within hours of getting a dose of Tezspire, or it may take days to develop.

If you notice swelling in your face, trouble breathing, or a rash, get medical attention right away. Make sure to notify your prescriber about any allergic reactions you have to Tezspire. They will weigh the risks and benefits of continuing treatment with Tezspire for your asthma.

* This is not a complete list of side effects. See here for more information.