Why is this medication prescribed?

C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection is prescribed for the treatment of hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks in adults. Hereditary angioedema is a genetic disorder that causes recurring episodes of swelling in various parts of the body, including the face, limbs, airway, and gastrointestinal tract.

How should this medicine be used?

How C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection should be used:

• Dosage: The dosage of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection is based on body weight and the severity of the attack. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose for you.
• Administration: It is administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion. This means it is given directly into a vein over a period of time.
• Timing: It should be administered as soon as possible after the onset of an HAE attack for best effectiveness.
• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor you during and after the infusion to ensure there are no adverse reactions and that the medication is working effectively.
• Repeat dosing: If needed, additional doses may be administered if symptoms persist or recur.
• Storage: Store the medication as per the manufacturer’s instructions, usually in a refrigerator. Follow proper handling and disposal procedures.

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions precisely regarding the timing and dosage of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection to effectively manage and treat HAE attacks. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and recommendations.

Other uses for this medicine

• Acquired Angioedema: This is a condition similar to HAE but occurs due to conditions such as lymphoproliferative disorders or autoimmune diseases.
• Other Types of Angioedema: In certain cases of angioedema that do not respond to standard therapies, C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection may be considered.
• Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: There is ongoing research into the potential use of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection for reducing tissue damage in conditions involving ischemia (lack of blood flow) followed by reperfusion (restoration of blood flow).

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection:

• Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions can occur with C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection. Patients should be monitored closely during administration for any signs of allergic reactions such as hives, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat.
• Thromboembolic Events: There have been reports of thromboembolic events (blood clots) associated with the use of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection. Patients with a history of thrombotic events or conditions predisposing to thrombosis should be closely monitored during treatment.
• Transmission of Infectious Agents: As with all products derived from human plasma, C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection carries a risk of transmitting infectious agents (e.g., viruses) despite rigorous donor screening and testing procedures.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established. It should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if clearly needed and after consultation with a healthcare provider.
• Pediatric Use: The safety and effectiveness of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection in pediatric patients have not been well studied. Its use in children should be carefully considered based on individual patient needs and risks.
• Other Medical Conditions: Patients with certain medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure or renal impairment, may require special considerations or monitoring when receiving C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection, including any special precautions that may apply to your specific health situation.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions typically associated with C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection. However, maintaining a balanced and healthy diet is generally recommended for overall well-being. If you have any specific dietary concerns or restrictions, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection, contact your healthcare provider or treatment center promptly for guidance. It’s essential to adhere to the recommended dosing schedule to manage hereditary angioedema (HAE) effectively. Your healthcare provider may advise on the best course of action depending on how far along you are in your treatment cycle and the severity of your condition.

What side effects can this medication cause?

C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Not everyone experiences these side effects, and their severity can vary. Common side effects of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection may include:

• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches are relatively common.
• Nausea and vomiting: Some people may experience gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or lethargic.
• Fever: Low-grade fever might occur after infusion.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.

These side effects are typically mild and transient. However, if they persist or worsen, or if you experience more severe side effects, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider.

Less common but potentially serious side effects may include:

• Allergic Reactions: This can range from mild allergic symptoms (such as itching or rash) to severe reactions (such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat). Immediate medical attention is necessary if any signs of a severe allergic reaction occur.
• Thromboembolic Events: There is a risk of blood clots (thromboembolic events) associated with C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection. Symptoms can include sudden pain, swelling, warmth, redness, or discoloration in a limb. Seek medical help if you experience any of these symptoms.
• Transmission of Infectious Agents: Although rare, there is a possibility of transmitting infectious agents (viruses) through C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection, despite rigorous donor screening and testing procedures.
• Hypersensitivity Reactions: Some individuals may develop hypersensitivity reactions beyond simple allergic responses, potentially leading to more severe symptoms.

If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects after receiving C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can evaluate your symptoms and determine the appropriate course of action.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage: C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Generally, it should be stored in a refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Do not freeze the medication. Protect it from light.
• Handling: Follow proper aseptic techniques when preparing and administering C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection to reduce the risk of contamination.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection according to local regulations. It may be advisable to return unused medication to a healthcare provider or pharmacy for proper disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency Situations: If you experience severe allergic reactions (such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat) or any other serious adverse effects immediately after receiving C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection, seek emergency medical attention. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Overdose: There is limited information on overdose of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection. In case of suspected overdose, contact a healthcare provider, poison control center, or emergency room for advice.

What other information should I know?

• Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may monitor you during and after the infusion of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection to assess its effectiveness and watch for any adverse reactions.
• Travel: If you need to travel with C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection, ensure proper storage and transportation conditions are maintained. Consider carrying a medical alert card or bracelet indicating your treatment with this medication.
• Follow-up: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition and response to treatment. Discuss any concerns or changes in your health promptly.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection.
• Patient Support: Consider joining a patient support group for hereditary angioedema (HAE) to connect with others who have similar experiences and share information about managing the condition.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the use, storage, and handling of C1-Esterase Inhibitor (Recombinant) Injection to ensure safe and effective treatment for hereditary angioedema (HAE). If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.