Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Nucala (mepolizumab) and Dupixent (dupilumab) are both injectable medications used to treat asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), but they belong to different medication classes. Nucala is an interleukin antagonist that specifically targets interleukin-5 (IL-5) to reduce eosinophil levels and inflammation, while Dupixent is a monoclonal antibody that blocks multiple interleukin proteins responsible for inflammation. In addition to asthma and COPD, Nucala is FDA-approved for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), and hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES). Dupixent is additionally approved for moderate-to-severe eczema, sinus congestion with nasal polyps, and eosinophilic esophagitis, among other conditions. Nucala is typically administered once a month, whereas Dupixent is given every other week or monthly, depending on the condition. Nucala is available as a prefilled autoinjector and syringe, while Dupixent comes in pre-filled pens and syringes. Common side effects of Nucala include headache and injection-site reactions, while Dupixent may cause injection site reactions and eye inflammation. Both medications require careful monitoring for allergic reactions and interactions with other medications.
Nucala (mepolizumab)
Dupixent (dupilumab)
Nucala (mepolizumab)
Dupixent (dupilumab)
Summary of Nucala vs. Dupixent
Summary for Interleukin antagonist
Prescription only
Nucala (mepolizumab) is an injection that treats certain inflammatory problems. This includes severe asthma in people 6 years and older. It can also treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and sinus congestion with nasal polyps in adults. The medication works as an interleukin antagonist to lower inflammation. It's injected under the skin once a month. You can inject it on your own with the prefilled autoinjector or syringe. A healthcare professional can also give the injection at a medical office. Side effects include headache and injection site reactions.
Summary for Interleukin antagonist
Prescription only
Dupixent (dupilumab) is an injection that helps treat certain inflammatory conditions. This includes eczema, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), among others. It's a biologic medication known as an interleukin antagonist that lowers inflammation. Dupixent (dupilumab) comes as prefilled pens and prefilled syringes. It's injected under the skin of the belly or thighs (or in the back of the upper arm with someone's help). The dosing schedule depends on the condition you have, your age, and your weight. It's injected either every week, every 2 weeks, or every 4 weeks. Side effects include injection site reactions and eye problems.
Indications of Nucala vs. Dupixent
Indications for
•Severe asthma - add-on maintenance for people ages 6 years and older