Drug
C1 Esterase Inhibitor
Uses
This medication is used to help prevent swelling and painful attacks caused by a certain inherited disease (hereditary angioedema-HAE). Most people with this disease have too little of a certain substance produced by your body (C1-esterase inhibitor). Some people with this disease have normal amounts of the substance, but it doesn't work right. Anxiety, stress, illness, or surgery may trigger attacks in some people. Symptoms such as rapid swelling of the hands, feet, limbs, face, tongue, or throat can occur. Swelling of the belly may cause symptoms such as severe pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. This medication works by increasing the amount of C1-esterase inhibitor in your body.
This medication should not be used to treat sudden swelling attacks caused by HAE. Ask your doctor ahead of time what to do if you have a sudden attack.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions for Use if available from your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. Ask your health care professional how to prepare and use this medication. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Inject this medication under the skin as directed by your doctor, usually twice a week (every 3 or 4 days). The injection is given in the abdomen or another site as directed. The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.
Make sure that the medication and mixing solution are at room temperature before mixing. Before using, check this product for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Before injecting each dose, clean the skin you are going to inject into (the injection site) with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin. Do not inject into skin that is itchy, swollen, painful, bruised, or red, or has scars or stretch marks. To lessen bruising, do not rub the injection site after a shot. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark your calendar with a reminder.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.