0
0
A new international study has provided promising insights into the use of asthma biologics during pregnancy, showing that these treatments can help reduce the risk of serious complications for both mothers and babies. Asthma, when not properly managed during pregnancy, can lead to complications such as low birth weight, preterm delivery, and preeclampsia.
For individuals with severe asthma, biologic therapies—innovative drugs that target specific immune system mechanisms—have been shown to reduce asthma attacks, decrease the need for corticosteroids, and improve overall quality of life. However, concerns about the safety of these biologics during pregnancy have remained largely unanswered, as pregnant women are often excluded from clinical trials.
To fill this knowledge gap, an international Delphi study was conducted, involving 141 experts from 32 countries who reached a consensus on guidelines for using asthma biologics during pregnancy and breastfeeding. A Delphi study is a research method where experts participate in multiple rounds of surveys to anonymously develop a consensus.
The findings of the study, published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, suggest that asthma biologics can be safely used throughout pregnancy, and that these treatments can be initiated when needed and continued during breastfeeding. The study’s authors, including Apostolos Bossios, principal researcher at the Institute of Environmental Medicine (IMM), emphasized that the benefits of biologics should be weighed against potential risks, and decisions should be made in close consultation with patients.
“We hope this consensus will help improve care for pregnant women suffering from severe asthma and reduce the risks associated with uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy,” said Bossios.
While the study provides new hope for pregnant women with severe asthma, the expert panel also noted the importance of further data collection through international registries to refine and improve these treatment guidelines.
The full study is available in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine.
For more information, you can refer to the article by Jennifer Naftel et al, titled An international consensus on the use of asthma biologics in pregnancy (2024). DOI: 10.1016/S2213-2600(24)00174-7.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any decisions related to pregnancy, asthma treatment, or medication use.
