Icatibant Xiromed (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: prompt symptom control when attacks occur.
• Hereditary angioedema in adults (any type): provides fast relief of edema and improves airway safety.

• 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 leakage that causes the characteristic swelling of hereditary angioedema, leading to rapid symptom resolution.

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: mild to moderate discomfort at the injection point.
• Redness or erythema: localized skin irritation.
• Swelling at injection site: transient increase in local tissue volume.
• Nausea: occasional gastrointestinal upset.
• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• 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: sudden drop in blood pressure.
• Airway angioedema: swelling that may compromise breathing.
• Thrombocytopenia: low platelet count observed in rare cases.
• Urticaria: widespread hives.

• Before using Icatibant, consider the following safety measures.
• Pregnancy: safety not established; use only if benefit outweighs potential risk.
• Breastfeeding: unknown safety; evaluate risk versus benefit.
• Renal impairment: no dosage adjustment required, but monitor renal function.
• Concomitant ACE inhibitors: may increase bradykinin levels; observe for enhanced angioedema.
• Hypersensitivity: discontinue immediately if severe allergic reaction occurs.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Icatibant can interact with other medications that affect the bradykinin system or immune response.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• ACE inhibitors: increased bradykinin may raise risk of angioedema.
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs): additive effect on bradykinin pathways.
• Other bradykinin B2 antagonists: combined use may lead to excessive blockade.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Antihistamines: may mask early signs of hypersensitivity; monitor patient.
• Corticosteroids: could alter immune response; observe for infection risk.