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Icatibant

Generic Name: icatibant
Brand names: Firazyr Sajazir
Dosage form: subcutaneous solution (10 mg/ml)
Drug class: hereditary angioedema agents

What is Icatibant?

Icatibant can be used to treat adult cases of hereditary angioedema, a disorder of the immune system.Icatibant does not cure hereditary oedema.Icatibant can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Icatibant

If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, or swelling of your throat, mouth, or face, seek immediate medical attention.

Icatibant can cause symptoms similar to hereditary angioedema.

Icatibant can cause the following side effects:

  • Pain, numbness or tingling, bruising or swelling, warmth, irritation, hives, or itching
  • Fever;
  • Headache, dizziness;
  • Abnormal liver function tests
  • Nausea;
  • Rash.

There may be other side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report adverse effects, you can contact the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

If you experience swelling in your throat or tongue during an angioedema episode, inject icatibant. Seek emergency medical attention.

Do not use more than three icatibant shots in a 24-hour period. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience symptoms that do not improve or worsen.

Before you take this drug

Tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions, allergies, or medicines that you take. Also, tell him if you're pregnant or nursing.

Icatibant may have a greater effect on older adults.Icatibant cannot be used by anyone under the age of 18.

How to take icatibant?

Read all instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow all directions. Follow the directions on the label.Icatibant can be injected into the skin. You may be taught how to use the medication properly by a healthcare provider.Please read and follow all instructions for use that come with your medication. Ask your pharmacist or doctor if you don't understand.

Before preparing the injection, wash your hands with soap.Only prepare an injection when you're ready to administer it. If the medicine has become cloudy or has particles, it should not be used. For new medicine, call your pharmacist.Icatibant shouldn't be injected in an area which is inflamed, painful or swollen.Only use the needle provided with this medication.

You can use another injection if you have angioedema symptoms after the first one. This should be done at least six hours after your initial injection.If you experience swelling in your throat or tongue during an angioedema episode, inject icatibant. Seek emergency medical attention.Use no more than three icatibant shots in a 24-hour period.If your symptoms don't improve or worsen after taking this medication, call your doctor.

Each prefilled syringe can only be used once. After one use, throw it out, even if the medicine is still inside.The prefilled syringe should be stored in the original container, either in a fridge or at room temperature. Do not freeze.

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 out of reach of pets and children.

Details on dosage

Adult dose for hereditary angioedema:

If symptoms persist or the response is insufficient, repeat this dose every six hours.
Maximum dose: 90 mg/day

What happens if I miss the dose?

Icatibant does not require a schedule of daily doses because it is only used as needed. If your symptoms don't improve after taking the icatibant, call your doctor.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.Redness, itching, or a feeling that you may pass out are all symptoms of an overdose.

What should be avoided?

You should avoid driving or engaging in hazardous activities until you are sure of how it affects you. You could have impaired reactions.

Interaction with other drug

Inform your doctor of all other medications you are taking, particularly heart or blood pressure medications.

Other drugs, such as vitamins and herbal remedies, may also affect icatibant. Inform your doctor of all the medicines you are currently taking and those that you will begin or stop using.