Uses
This medication is used to treat the swelling problems that occur with a certain immune disease passed down through families (hereditary angioedema-HAE). HAE is caused by low levels or improper function of a natural substance produced by the body (C1-inhibitor). Symptoms such as rapid swelling of the hands, feet, limbs, face, tongue, or throat can occur. Swelling of the intestinal tract may cause symptoms such as abdominal cramps, diarrhea, or vomiting. Attacks of swelling may occur without reason. However, anxiety, stress, sickness, and surgery may trigger attacks in some people. This medication increases the level of C1-inhibitor to help treat attacks of sudden swelling due to hereditary angioedema.
How To Use
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start using C1-esterase inhibitor and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
This medication is given by injection into a vein, at the first signs of an HAE attack, as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on weight and your medical condition.
If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. The solution is normally clear and colorless. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Learn how to store and discard medical supplies safely.
After giving yourself a dose of this medication, you should get medical help right away for follow-up treatment.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.
Side Effects
A bad taste in the mouth may occur. Other side effects are uncommon. If you notice any unusual side effects, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
This medication may increase the risk for blood clots, especially when used at high doses. Get medical help right away if you notice any of the following rare but serious side effects:
- new swelling/pain in the arm/leg/abdomen
- chest pain
- loss of feeling or ability to move
- trouble speaking
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before using C1-esterase inhibitor, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- blood clots (such as in the lungs, legs)
This medication is made from human blood. Even though the blood is carefully tested, and this medication goes through a special manufacturing process, there is an extremely small chance that you may get infections from the medication (for example, virus infections such as hepatitis). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Before traveling, talk to your doctor to make sure you have enough of this medication.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Drug Interactions
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Alberta residents can call PADIS (Poison and Drug Information Service) 24 hours a day at 1-800-332-1414. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Notes
Do not share this medication with others.
Missed Dose
Not applicable.
Storage
Store the unmixed vial in the original carton in the refrigerator or at room temperature away from light. Do not freeze. Use this medication immediately after mixing or within the time period indicated in the product instructions. Discard any unused portion. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
