I read that there might be a new asthma controlling shot that is given just every six months.  Is that true?  

Yes, it is true.  Researchers at Oxford University have just completed two phase 3A randomized placebo control trials that look very promising.  The new drug is depemokimab and it is a monoclonal antibody (note the “mab” at the end of its name) that binds to Interleukin 5.  In fact, it has an incredibly strong binding affinity for Interleukin 5 which allows for just twice a year dosing.  Interleukin 5 is an inflammation causing cytokine that is responsible for the growth, recruitment, activation and survival of eosinophils.  Eosinophils are white blood cells that are the cause of most asthma.  Make the eosinophils go away and you make the asthma go away.    

There are other currently available drugs that are also very effective in controlling asthma that target Interleukin 5.  But they require more frequent dosing.  Also, all of these medications are only indicated in severe asthma that is not adequately controlled with inhaled steroids.   

In the two Oxford trials, depemokimab was very effective in improving asthmatic symptoms and in reducing exacerbations.  The side effect profile was similar to that of the placebo control.  Still, it won’t be available until it meets FDA approval.