Ep. 84: Biologic Medication Facts vs. Myths
Part of the series: Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Innovations Podcast
This podcast was made in partnership with Allergy & Asthma Network.
We thank Sanofi-Regeneron for sponsoring this episode. While they support the show, all opinions are our own, and sponsorship doesn’t influence our content or editorial decisions. Any mention of brands is for informational purposes and not an endorsement.
LISTEN TO EPISODE 84:
Curious about what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to biologic medications?
We’re uncovering the truth behind the most pervasive myths about biologic medications with guest Dr. Cedric “Jamie” Rutland. Biologics are revolutionizing the treatment of allergic diseases like asthma and eczema, but misconceptions about their effectiveness, safety, and usage still persist. Dr. Rutland sets the record straight, debunking myths that may be clouding your understanding and decision-making process.
From whether biologics are a cure to concerns about long-term safety and side effects, this episode tackles the most common myths head-on. Dr. Rutland breaks down what biologic therapy truly offers, helping you make informed decisions about your treatment options.
What we cover in this episode about the biologic medication myths:
Are biologics a cure? Dr. Rutland explains that biologics help manage symptoms, but they are not a complete cure.
Biologics vs. traditional medications: We clarify how biologics differ from traditional medications in the way they target the immune system at a molecular level.
Do biologics have severe side effects? We dispel myths about severe side effects.
Long-term effectiveness of biologics: Dr. Rutland talks about how biologics maintain effectiveness over time for most patients.
Do you have to stay on biologics for life? Learn how long patients typically stay on biologic treatments and whether they are lifelong therapies.
When should biologics be considered? We address the myth that biologics are only for when all other treatments have failed and discuss when biologics should be introduced.
Can you stop other medications while on biologics? Dr. Rutland explains that biologics are often used alongside other medications, not as a replacement.
Who can use biologics? We debunk the myth that biologics are only for adults or that they can't be used if you have multiple health issues.
Biologics and cancer risk: A common concern, but Dr. Rutland explains the actual risks and dispels the misconception that biologics cause cancer.
Are biologics immunosuppressive? We discuss how biologics work on the immune system without broadly suppressing it like other treatments might.
Biologics in medical practice: Dr. Rutland talks about the role of doctors and financial incentives, explaining why doctors prescribe biologics and how they make treatment decisions.
Do biologics work immediately? Dr. Rutland sets the record straight on how long it typically takes for biologics to start working.
Biologics are not experimental: Biologics have been widely studied and are not experimental treatments.
Administration of biologics: We address the myth that biologics must be administered only in hospitals, explaining how patients can receive them at home or in clinics.
Biologics are not interchangeable: Dr. Rutland explains the importance of sticking with the biologic prescribed specifically for a patient's condition.
Prescribing biologics: While specialists typically prescribe biologics, we explore how general practitioners can also be involved in the process.
Lifestyle changes and biologics: We discuss the misconception that biologics eliminate the need for lifestyle changes.
Are biologics unnecessary for mild symptoms? Dr. Rutland explains that biologics are not only for severe symptoms but can also be considered for other cases.
About our biologics expert - Dr. Rutland
Dr. Cedric "Jamie" Rutland is a board-certified pulmonologist and critical care physician at West Coast Lung. He specializes in pulmonary and critical care medicine, with a focus on advanced diagnostic techniques and patient-centered care. Dr. Rutland is also a renowned medical educator and content creator, known for his efforts in simplifying complex medical topics for broader audiences.
For more about Dr. Rutland, check out his Instagram!
More resources about biologic therapies and the conditions they treat:
Other episodes about biologic medicine:
Timestamps
What is a biologic medication - episode timestamps
00:56 Introduction to Dr. Rutland
01:29 Biologics manage symptoms but are not a cure
02:11 Differences between biologics and traditional medications
03:31 Clarifying myths about severe side effects of biologics
04:03 Long-term effectiveness of biologics for most patients
04:31 Length of time patients typically stay on biologics
05:42 Appropriate timing for introducing biologic therapy
06:27 Use of biologics alongside other medications
07:21 Eligibility for biologic therapy, including for those with multiple health issues
07:54 Biologics are not limited to adult patients
08:15 Biologics and cancer risk
08:38 Impact of biologics on the immune system
09:12 Addressing concerns about financial incentives in prescribing biologics
10:48 Timeline for biologics to take effect
11:47 Biologics are not experimental treatments
13:19 Administration options for biologics (doctor’s office, hospital, or home)
13:50 Biologics are not interchangeable
15:30 Role of specialists in prescribing biologics
16:50 Biologics do not eliminate the need for lifestyle changes
17:57 Use of biologics in cases with non-severe symptoms
