Biologic & Monoclonal Antibody Therapy for Sinus and Allergy Conditions
At Richmond ENT, we offer advanced treatment options for patients with severe or difficult-to-control sinus and allergy conditions, including biologic (monoclonal antibody) therapies. These medications target specific immune pathways that drive inflammation and symptoms when standard treatments are not enough. Our physicians and nurse practitioners stay current with evolving immunology and biologic treatments through ongoing education, research, and professional society involvement. Dr. Armstrong was a principal investigator in clinical trials for Dupixent (dupilumab) and Nucala (mepolizumab). He was a consultant before the launch of Xolair for nasal polyps.
What Are Biologic (Monoclonal Antibody) Medications?
Biologics are highly targeted injectable medications designed to calm overactive immune responses. Unlike traditional allergy medications that broadly suppress symptoms, biologics work by blocking specific immune signals involved in chronic inflammation.
These therapies have transformed care for patients with:
- Chronic sinus disease
- Nasal polyps
- Severe allergic disease
- Asthma associated with sinus or allergy conditions
Biologics are not steroids or chemotherapy. They are precision therapies developed using advanced immunology.
Conditions Treated With Biologic Therapy
Biologic medications may be recommended for patients with:
Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps (CRSwNP)
- Persistent congestion or blockage
- Loss of smell
- Recurrent sinus infections
- Symptoms despite surgery, sprays, or oral medications
Severe Allergic or Eosinophilic Sinus Disease
- Ongoing inflammation despite optimal medical therapy
- Frequent oral steroid use
- Significant impact on quality of life
Asthma With Upper Airway Disease
- Asthma linked to sinus or nasal inflammation
- Patients requiring coordinated ENT and pulmonary care
Common Biologic Medications Used in ENT Care
Several FDA-approved biologics are used in otolaryngology and allergy care, including:
- Dupilumab (Dupixent®)
Used for chronic sinusitis with nasal polyps, asthma, and allergic conditions - Omalizumab (Xolair®)
Used for nasal polyps, allergic asthma, and certain allergic conditions - Mepolizumab (Nucala®)
Used for nasal polyps, eosinophilic inflammatory disease, and asthma - Tezepelumab-ekko (Tespire®)
Used for nasal polyps and asthma. New in 2024.
Your provider will determine which medication—if any—is appropriate based on your diagnosis, lab results, and clinical history.
How Biologic Therapy Is Given
- Administered as an injection, typically every 2–8 weeks
- Some medications are given in the office; others can be self-administered at home after training
- Ongoing monitoring ensures effectiveness and safety
Biologics are intended for long-term disease control, not short-term symptom relief.
Who May Be a Candidate?
You may be a candidate for biologic therapy if you:
- Have moderate to severe sinus disease or nasal polyps
- Continue to have symptoms despite nasal sprays, medications, or surgery
- Require frequent oral steroids
- Have coexisting asthma or allergic disease
- Meet specific clinical and insurance criteria
A thorough evaluation is required before starting therapy.
Safety and Side Effects
Biologic medications are generally well tolerated. Possible side effects may include:
- Injection site reactions
- Mild fatigue or headache
- Rare allergic reactions
Your Richmond ENT provider will review risks, benefits, and monitoring requirements in detail before treatment begins.
Insurance Coverage
Many biologic medications are covered by insurance, including Medicare and major commercial plans, when medical criteria are met.
Coverage depends on:
- Diagnosis and severity
- Prior treatments tried
- Insurance plan requirements
Our experienced team assists with insurance verification, prior authorization, and coordination of care.
Biologic Therapy at Richmond ENT
At Richmond ENT, biologic therapy is offered as part of a comprehensive sinus and allergy program, which may include:
- Advanced diagnostic evaluation
- Medical therapy optimization
- Allergy testing and immunotherapy
- In-office procedures
- Surgical care when appropriate
Schedule a Consultation
If you have chronic sinus or allergy symptoms that have not improved with standard treatments, a consultation can help determine whether biologic therapy may be appropriate.
Call Richmond ENT: 804-330-5501
Or request an appointment online
Results vary. Biologic therapy is not appropriate for every patient. A consultation is required to determine candidacy and insurance coverage.