Icatibant Ethypharm (Icatibant)

Icatibant acts on the bradykinin pathway to relieve swelling in hereditary angioedema.

• Hereditary angioedema type I: rapid reduction of swelling during acute attacks.
• Hereditary angioedema type II: rapid reduction of swelling during acute attacks.
• Acute HAE attacks in adults: provides prompt symptom relief and shortens attack duration.

• Icatibant selectively blocks the bradykinin B2 receptor, preventing bradykinin from binding and activating the receptor. This inhibition stops bradykinin‑mediated vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, thereby reducing the edema and swelling characteristic of hereditary angioedema attacks.

Icatibant may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are related to the injection site or systemic hypersensitivity.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain: mild to moderate discomfort at the injection site.
• Redness: localized erythema around the injection area.
• Swelling: transient edema at the site of administration.
• Warmth: sensation of heat at the injection site.
• Nausea: occasional mild gastrointestinal upset.
• Headache: transient mild headache.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention.
• Angioedema: unexpected swelling of face, lips, or throat.
• Hypotension: sudden drop in blood pressure.
• Thrombocytopenia: reduced platelet count observed in rare cases.
• Severe injection site reactions: necrosis or ulceration.

Before using Icatibant, consider the following safety measures.

• Hypersensitivity: avoid if known allergy to icatibant or any formulation component.
• Pregnancy: use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk, as safety data are limited.
• Breastfeeding: discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, based on clinical judgment.
• Concomitant ACE inhibitors: monitor closely for enhanced bradykinin effects.
• Renal impairment: no dose adjustment required, but monitor clinical response.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Icatibant may interact with other medicines that influence the bradykinin system.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• ACE inhibitors: increased bradykinin levels may heighten risk of angioedema.
• Angiotensin receptor blockers combined with ACE inhibitors: similar risk of enhanced bradykinin effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Estrogen‑containing contraceptives: may affect bradykinin metabolism, requiring observation.
• Neprilysin inhibitors: potential additive effect on bradykinin levels.
• Other B2 receptor antagonists: may lead to reduced efficacy or unpredictable pharmacodynamics.