Icatibant Universal Farma (Icatibant)

Icatibant is a targeted therapy for hereditary angioedema, acting on the bradykinin pathway to relieve swelling.

• Acute hereditary angioedema attacks: rapid reduction of swelling and pain in adults.
• Hereditary angioedema type I: alleviates attack‑related edema when administered promptly.
• Hereditary angioedema type II: provides fast symptom control during acute episodes.

• Icatibant selectively blocks the bradykinin B2 receptor, preventing bradykinin from binding and triggering vasodilation and increased vascular permeability. By inhibiting this receptor, the drug reduces the fluid extravasation that causes the characteristic swelling of hereditary angioedema, leading to rapid symptom relief after subcutaneous administration.

Icatibant may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

• Injection site pain: discomfort at the site of subcutaneous injection.
• Redness or erythema: localized skin irritation.
• Swelling at injection site: mild edema around the needle entry.
• Nausea: occasional gastrointestinal upset.
• Headache: mild to moderate head discomfort.
• Dizziness: transient light‑headedness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hypersensitivity reactions: rash, itching, or hives.
• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic response requiring immediate medical attention.
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure.
• Worsening angioedema: paradoxical increase in swelling.
• Infection at injection site: signs of local infection.
• Thrombocytopenia: low platelet count observed in rare cases.

Before using Icatibant, consider the following safety measures.

• Pregnancy: safety not established; use only if benefit outweighs potential risk.
• Breastfeeding: unknown effects; weigh risks and benefits before administration.
• Renal impairment: exercise caution and monitor renal function.
• Concomitant ACE inhibitors: monitor for increased bradykinin‑related angioedema.
• Known hypersensitivity: discontinue immediately if allergic reaction occurs.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Icatibant can interact with other medicines that influence bradykinin levels or blood pressure.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• ACE inhibitors: may increase bradykinin, raising risk of angioedema.
• Angiotensin receptor blockers: similar potential to elevate bradykinin.
• Other bradykinin B2 antagonists: additive pharmacologic effect.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Diuretics: monitor blood pressure and electrolyte balance.
• NSAIDs: may exacerbate edema or affect renal function.
• Estrogen‑containing contraceptives: possible influence on HAE severity.
• Antihistamines: may mask early signs of hypersensitivity.
• Corticosteroids: monitor for overlapping immunomodulatory effects.