What is Haegarda?
Haegarda, a synthetic version of a blood protein that controls swelling, is available. This protein is not enough for people with hereditary angioedema. Hereditary angioedema is characterized by swelling attacks and other symptoms, such as stomach pain or difficulty breathing.Haegarda, an injectable medicine, is used to treat hereditary angioedema in patients aged 6 and older.Haegarda is not recommended for treating an acute HAE. If you are experiencing an acute HAE, begin a treatment plan that is individualized and discussed with your healthcare professional.
Warnings
Haegarda should not be used if you've experienced anaphylaxis or life-threatening hypersensitivity reactions to the product.
Before you take this drug
Haegarda should not be used if you have had an allergic reaction that was life-threatening to the c1 esterase inhibitor.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Haegarda will be safe for you:
- A stroke or blood clot
- Heart problems
- An "in-dwelling" catheter.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.Haegarda, which is made of donated plasma from humans, may contain viruses and other infectious agents. Plasma is treated and tested to reduce the chance of contamination. However, there is still some risk. You should ask your doctor if there are any risks.
Similar/related drugs
Cinryze, Firazyr, Ruconest, Kalbitor, Takhzyro, Orladeyo, and Stanozolol
How to take Haegarda?
Haegarda should be taken exactly as prescribed by your physician. Read all the instructions on the prescription label.Haegarda can be injected into the skin. Your healthcare provider may give you your first dose and teach you how to use it properly.Follow all instructions for use that come with your medication. Prepare an injection when you are prepared to administer it. If you do not understand the instructions, ask your pharmacist or doctor.Storing vials that have not been opened: Store them in the refrigerator or at cool room temperatures and use them up to the date of expiration. Do not freeze, and protect from light.Each vial is only for one-time use. After one use, throw it out, even if the medicine is still inside.Use the injection immediately after mixing Haegarda, or store it at room temperature for up to 8 hours.Haegarda contains no preservatives. You must use the vial immediately after piercing the rubber cap with a needle.
Only use a needle or syringe once, and then store them in a "sharps container" that is puncture-proof. Be sure to follow local or state laws on how to properly dispose of the container. Keep the container away from pets and children.
Details on dosage
Adult dose for hereditary angioedema:
Haegarda can be administered by the patient or caregiver after reconstitution. The dose is 60 international units per kilogram of body weight, twice weekly. The patient or caregiver must be instructed on how to administer a subcutaneous injection.
Prophylaxis is a routine measure to prevent attacks of hereditary angioedema.
Usual pediatric dose for hereditary angioedema:
Haegarda can be administered by the patient or caregiver after reconstitution. The dose is 60 international units per kilogram of body weight, twice weekly. The patient or caregiver must be instructed on how to administer a subcutaneous injection.
Use: Routine prophylaxis in order to prevent attacks of hereditary angioedema.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If you missed a dose, call your doctor to get instructions.Haegarda is a great product to keep on hand for angioedema prevention, especially when traveling.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately if you suspect poison, or seek immediate medical advice.
What should be avoided?
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Side effects of Haegarda
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives, chest tightness, rapid heartbeats, feeling a little light-headed, wheezing, difficulty breathing, blue gums or lips, or swelling on your face, lips, throat, or tongue, seek emergency medical attention.
If you experience:
- A sudden weakness or numbness on one side of your body.
- Pain, swelling, warmth, or redness on the arm or leg
- Symptoms of sudden, severe headaches include confusion, difficulty with speech or vision, and problems with balance.
- Chest pain when taking deep breaths
- Rapid heart rate.
Haegarda may cause side effects such as:
- Unusual or unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Headache, dizziness;
- Nausea, vomiting;
- Pain, bruising, swelling, or warmth where the medicine has been injected
- Sore throat, stuffy nose
- Rash;
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Contact the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report side effects.
Interaction with other drug
Tell your doctor all of your other medications, including:
- Testosterone;
- Birth-control pills.
This list is incomplete. Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbs, interact with c1-esterase inhibitors. This list does not encompass all possible drug interactions.
