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Icatibant

Pronounced

"eye-KAT-i-bant"

Common brand names:

Firazyr

Uses

Icatibant is used to treat sudden attacks of a certain immune system condition passed down through families called hereditary angioedema (HAE). Although this medication is not a cure for HAE, icatibant may lessen the symptoms of an attack such as rapid swelling and pain of the hands, arms, feet, legs, face, tongue, and upper airway. When attacks involve the stomach/intestines, symptoms may include abdominal pain/cramps, diarrhea, constipation, or vomiting. Attacks may happen at any time. However, stress, injury, or illness may trigger attacks in some people.

Icatibant works by blocking the action of a natural substance in the body called bradykinin. Bradykinin is thought to cause the symptoms of an HAE attack.

How to Use This Medication

Read the Patient Information Leaflet before you start using icatibant and each time you get a refill. If you are giving this medication to yourself at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product package and from your health care professional. Your health care professional will also teach you how to recognize the symptoms of a sudden attack of HAE. If any of the information is unclear, consult your health care professional.

Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. Change the injection site each time to lessen injury under the skin.

Inject this medication under the skin in the stomach/abdominal area as directed by your doctor, usually over at least 30 seconds. If your symptoms continue or come back, you may give another dose after at least 6 hours. Do not use more than 3 doses in 24 hours.

If you have a sudden HAE attack of your throat area/voice box/upper airway (larynx), give yourself an injection of icatibant and then get medical help right away. This type of attack may lead to a blocked airway and serious breathing trouble.

Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.

Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen.