Icatibant Zentiva (Icatibant Acetate)

Icatibant Zentiva is used within the hereditary angioedema therapeutic pathway to control rapid swelling episodes.

• Hereditary angioedema (HAE) in adults: provides rapid reduction of edema and relief of acute attack symptoms.

• Icatibant acetate selectively binds to the bradykinin B2 receptor, blocking the action of endogenous bradykinin. This antagonism prevents bradykinin‑mediated increases in vascular permeability and subsequent tissue edema, thereby mitigating the swelling characteristic of hereditary angioedema attacks.

Icatibant may cause a range of adverse reactions following subcutaneous administration.

Common Side Effects

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

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hypotension: significant drop in blood pressure requiring medical attention.
• Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction with airway compromise.
• Severe injection site necrosis: tissue damage at the injection site.
• Thrombocytopenia: low platelet count observed in rare cases.

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should consider several safety aspects.

• Hypersensitivity assessment: avoid use in patients with known allergy to icatibant or its excipients.
• Airway monitoring: observe for signs of airway obstruction during acute attacks.
• Concomitant bradykinin agents: evaluate potential additive effects.
• Renal or hepatic impairment: use with caution as clearance data are limited.
• Pregnancy and lactation: safety not established; weigh benefits against potential risks.
• Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Icatibant may interact with other medications that influence the bradykinin pathway or vascular tone.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Other bradykinin B2 antagonists: concurrent use may lead to excessive blockade.
• ACE inhibitors: may alter bradykinin dynamics and affect efficacy.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Estrogen‑containing contraceptives: can increase HAE frequency; monitor attack pattern.
• Diuretics: may potentiate hypotensive effects; observe blood pressure.
• Antihistamines: may mask early signs of allergic reactions; assess patient response.