Icatibant Teva (Icatibant Acetate)

Icatibant is used to manage hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks, a bradykinin‑mediated condition affecting the vascular system.

• Hereditary angioedema type I: reduces swelling and pain during acute attacks.
• Hereditary angioedema type II: provides rapid symptom relief in episodes.
• Hereditary angioedema with C1‑inhibitor deficiency: alleviates attack severity in adults.

• Icatibant acts as a competitive antagonist at the bradykinin B2 receptor. By binding to this receptor, it blocks the action of bradykinin, a peptide that causes vasodilation and increased vascular permeability. The inhibition prevents the cascade that leads to the rapid swelling characteristic of hereditary angioedema, thereby limiting attack duration and severity.

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

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain: discomfort at the subcutaneous injection area.
• Redness or erythema: localized skin irritation.
• Swelling at injection site: mild to moderate edema.
• Nausea: transient gastrointestinal upset.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Dizziness: temporary light‑headedness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hypersensitivity reactions: rash, urticaria, or angioedema.
• Anaphylaxis: severe, potentially life‑threatening allergic response.
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure requiring medical attention.
• Thrombocytopenia: low platelet count observed in rare cases.
• Acute pulmonary edema: rare respiratory compromise.

Before using Icatibant, consider the following safety measures.

• Pregnancy: safety not established; avoid unless clearly needed.
• Breastfeeding: unknown effects; weigh benefits against potential risks.
• Renal impairment: use with caution; monitor renal function.
• History of hypersensitivity: avoid if previous allergic reaction to icatibant.
• Concomitant ACE inhibitors: monitor for increased bradykinin‑related effects.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Icatibant can interact with other medicines that influence bradykinin pathways or hemodynamics.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• ACE inhibitors: may increase bradykinin levels, heightening risk of angioedema.
• Angiotensin receptor blockers: similar potential to augment bradykinin‑mediated effects.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• C1‑inhibitor concentrates: concurrent use may affect therapeutic response.
• Other bradykinin antagonists: additive inhibition could alter efficacy.
• Diuretics: monitor blood pressure and electrolyte balance during therapy.