The Battle of Delivery: Dupixent Syringe vs Pen

Dupixent is a medication used to treat moderate to severe eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis. It is a biologic therapy that works by blocking specific proteins in the body that cause inflammation and itching. Dupixent is available in two forms: a syringe and a pen. In this blog article, we will take a closer look at the differences between the two and help you decide which one may be the best option for you.

What is Dupixent?

Before diving into the differences between the syringe and pen, let’s first understand what Dupixent is and how long is dupixent good for out of the fridge it works. Dupixent is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called biologics. It is the first and only biologic approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat moderate to severe eczema in patients who are 12 years and older.

Dupixent works by targeting two proteins in the body called interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13). These proteins are involved in the body’s immune response, causing inflammation and itching in people with eczema. By blocking these proteins, Dupixent helps reduce the symptoms of eczema, such as redness, itching, and skin lesions.

Dupixent is given as a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected under the skin. It is typically self-administered at home once every two weeks after proper training by a healthcare professional. Now, let’s take a closer look at the two forms in which Dupixent is available: the syringe and the pen.

Dupixent Syringe

The Dupixent syringe is a single-use, pre-filled syringe that contains a specific dose of the medication. It comes in two strengths: 200 mg and 300 mg. The syringe has a needle attached to it, and the needle is covered by a needle cap to prevent accidental needle sticks. The needle cap also helps to keep the syringe sterile until it is ready to be used.

The syringe is designed to be used with a needle guard, which is a safety feature that prevents accidental needle sticks. The needle guard is activated after the injection is completed, and it covers the needle, making it safe for disposal.

Advantages of the Dupixent Syringe

1. Accurate Dosing: The Dupixent syringe comes pre-filled with a specific dose of the medication, which ensures accurate dosing every time. This is especially important for a biologic medication like Dupixent, where precise dosing is essential for optimal treatment results.

2. Easy to Use: The Dupixent syringe is designed to be user-friendly, even for those who have never given themselves an injection before. It comes with step-by-step instructions and a needle guard for added safety.

3. Cost-Effective: The syringe is the more cost-effective option compared to the pen. This is because the syringe is a single-use device, and there is no need to purchase additional equipment, such as a reusable pen.

4. No Refrigeration Required: Unlike the pen, the syringe does not require refrigeration. This can be convenient for those who travel frequently and need to take their medication with them.

5. Less Waste: The syringe is a single-use device, which means there is no wastage of medication. This can be beneficial for those who have insurance with strict refill policies.

Dupixent Pen

The Dupixent pen is a reusable device that also comes in two strengths: 200 mg and 300 mg. It is designed to be used with pre-filled cartridges that contain the medication. The pen has a dial that allows the user to select the correct dose, and the cartridge is inserted into the pen before each use.

The pen also has a needle attached to it, and like the syringe, it comes with a needle cap to prevent accidental needle sticks. However, unlike the syringe, the pen does not come with a needle guard. Instead, it has a needle cover that can be manually removed after the injection is completed.

Advantages of the Dupixent Pen

1. Reusable: The Dupixent pen is a reusable device, which means it can be used multiple times. This can be convenient for those who need to take Dupixent regularly and do not want to dispose of a new syringe each time.

2. No Need for Refills: The pen is a self-contained device, and there is no need for additional cartridges or syringes. This can be beneficial for those who have insurance with refill restrictions.

3. Fewer Injections: The pen is designed to deliver larger doses of Dupixent, which means fewer injections are required compared to the syringe. This can be a significant advantage for those who are uncomfortable with injections or those who have a busy schedule and cannot take the time for frequent injections.

4. Portable: The pen is a compact and portable device that can easily fit into a bag or purse. This can be convenient for those who travel frequently and need to take their medication with them.

5. No Needle Guard: The pen does not come with a needle guard, which means there is no need to activate it after the injection. This may be more comfortable for some users, as they do not have to worry about activating the needle guard correctly.

Which one is the better option?

Both the Dupixent syringe and pen have their advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and needs. If you are someone who prefers a one-time use device or is concerned about the cost, then the syringe may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more convenient and portable option, then the pen may be the better choice.

It is essential to discuss with your healthcare provider which option may be the best for you. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and circumstances.

In conclusion, Dupixent is an effective medication for treating moderate to severe eczema. It is available in two forms: the syringe and the pen. Both options have their own unique features and benefits, and the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and needs. Whichever option you choose, it is essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider and practice proper injection techniques to ensure the best treatment outcomes.