Is It Safe to Stop a Biologic Treatment?
Yes, it is possible. When you deciding to stop biologic therapy, look carefully at the risks and benefits. Talk with your allergist or pulmonologist before stopping.
For asthma, stopping biologics can increase your risk of flare-ups. This risk is minimal and suggests that stopping may be possible in certain cases. The decision to stop should be based on your individual medical history and situation. It should take into account your:
- Clinical stability
- History of flare-ups
- Overall asthma control
For food allergies, you should also stop a biologic with caution. It should be done under the supervision of your doctor. Biologics reduce your chance of a reaction if you accidentally eat one of your food allergens. Stopping might reduce the protection this medicine provides. It could increase the risk of allergic reactions.
John M. James, MD, is a board-certified allergist. He is also President of Food Allergy Consulting and Education Services, LLC. He has worked as a medical specialist in the field of allergy, asthma, and immunology for over 30 years. Dr. James received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee. He is board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.
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