Pneumologie
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Biologicals are a therapeutic option for patients with severe asthma. Difficult asthma in patients with untreated comorbidities or persistent trigger factors is much more common than severe refractory asthma. Optimized medical treatment, adherence to medication, elimination of trigger factors and treatment of comorbidities are essential before escalating the therapy with a biological. ⋯ For patients with severe asthma and eosinophilic inflammation the Interleukin (IL)-5 Antibodies Mepolizumab and Reslizumab have recently been approved. The most prominent effect of biological treatment is the reduction of acute exacerbations in these patients. Further antibodies against IL-5 receptor (Benralizumab) or against the IL-4 receptor alpha chain (Dupilumab) are in advanced clinical development.