Products
Icatibant is marketed as a solution for injection (Firazyr). It has been approved in many countries since 2009.
Structure and properties
Icatibant is a synthetic decapeptide with a similar structure to bradykinin, consisting of five nonproteinogenic amino acids. It exists as icatibant acetate.
Effects
Icatibant (ATC B06AC02) is a selective and competitive antagonist of the bradykinin receptor type 2 (B2) and abolishes the effects of the peptide neurohormone bradykinin, which causes the symptoms of hereditary angioedema. Bradykinin is vasodilatory and causes swelling (edema), inflammation, and pain.
Indications
For symptomatic treatment of acute attacks of hereditary angioedema with C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The injection is administered subcutaneously in the abdominal region by healthcare professionals.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
ACE inhibitors are contraindicated in hereditary angioedema because they may increase bradykinin levels.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include injection site reactions, dizziness, headache, nausea, rash, skin redness, pruritus, and fever.
