Icatibant

Icatibant, the active ingredient in Icatibant, is a bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist presented as an injectable solution for subcutaneous administration. It is indicated for the treatment of acute attacks of hereditary angioedema in patients who have a C1‑inhibitor deficiency, helping to reduce swelling and related symptoms.

GNH USA supplies Icatibant as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide, with distribution aligned to EU regulatory standards.

Icatibant acts on the bradykinin pathway to control hereditary angioedema episodes. - Hereditary angioedema (C1‑inhibitor deficiency): rapidly reduces swelling during acute attacks. - Hereditary angioedema type I: provides prompt symptom relief. - Hereditary angioedema type II: blocks bradykinin‑mediated edema. - Acute angioedema not responding to C1‑inhibitor therapy: offers an alternative mechanism of action.

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 site. - Injection site erythema: redness around the injection area. - Injection site swelling: localized edema. - Nausea: feeling of stomach upset. - Headache: mild to moderate head pain. - Dizziness: transient sense of light‑headedness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Anaphylaxis: severe allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention. - Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure. - Angioedema of the face or airway: swelling that can compromise breathing. - Urticaria: widespread hives. - Infection at injection site: signs of local infection. - Thrombocytopenia: low platelet count observed in rare cases.

Before using icatibant, several safety considerations should be observed. - Confirm diagnosis: verify hereditary angioedema with C1‑inhibitor deficiency. - Assess hypersensitivity: monitor for allergic reactions to icatibant or excipients. - Administer under supervision: ensure trained healthcare personnel give the subcutaneous injection. - Avoid in known hypersensitivity: do not use if the patient has a documented allergy to icatibant. - Store at 2-8°C: keep refrigerated, protect from light, do not freeze or shake.

Icatibant can interact with other medicines that affect the bradykinin system or blood pressure.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - ACE inhibitors: may increase bradykinin levels and raise the risk of angioedema. - Angiotensin receptor blockers: similar potential to elevate bradykinin‑related swelling. - Other bradykinin B2 antagonists: additive pharmacologic effect may be unsafe.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Estrogen‑containing contraceptives: may influence hereditary angioedema severity. - C1‑inhibitor concentrate: concurrent use may be unnecessary and should be coordinated. - Diuretics: monitor blood pressure changes when combined with icatibant.