What you need to know about Icatibant Injection

Imagine suddenly your lips, around your eyes, face, hands or feet suddenly start swelling. Sometimes this swelling can even go up into your throat and make it difficult to breathe. This is a really scary experience. In medicine, we call this sudden swelling condition angioedema. So, Icatibant is a special injection that is used to control that swelling in such an emergency. If your doctor has prescribed this medicine for you, it is very important to be fully informed about it.

Simply put, what is Icatibant?

Icatibant is actually a protein. This medicine works by blocking the action of a chemical in our body that causes angioedema. This helps to quickly control the sudden swelling and other symptoms associated with it. This medicine is usually available in the market under the names `FIRAZYR` or `SAJAZIR`.

This is not a commonly used medication like a regular painkiller. It is only used to treat emergencies (attacks) of angioedema.

Before using the medicine, you should tell your doctor about these things.

Before giving you this medicine, your doctor will need to know everything about you. Therefore, if any of the following apply to you, please tell us.

• Allergies: If you have had an allergic reaction to this Icatibant medication, any other medication, food, preservatives, or dyes, you must tell your doctor.
• Pregnancy: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon.
• If you are a breastfeeding mother: If you are a breastfeeding mother, you should also be aware of that.

How is this vaccine used?

This is a vaccine that is injected under the skin. It is usually made so that you can inject it yourself. Your doctor or a trained nurse will show you exactly how to prepare and inject it. It is very important to follow these instructions exactly.

What to do in an emergency

This is the most important part of this article. Remember it well.

If you have a laryngeal attack , meaning you have difficulty speaking or breathing, get this injection immediately. Then, without delay, go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU). This is a must-do.

What do you do with used needles?

Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. They can be dangerous to others. There is a special sharps container for these. If you don't have one, ask your doctor for one.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken too much medicine, call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital immediately. Alternatively, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

What if a dose is missed or symptoms return?

If your symptoms persist after the shot, or if they come back after a while, you can get another dose. But remember, at least 6 hours must have passed since the previous shot. Also, do not use more than 3 doses in 24 hours . Your doctor will explain this to you in more detail.

Other medications that may interact with this medicine

Some medications may interact with this Icatibant injection. You should be especially careful with some medications for high blood pressure (ACE inhibitors). If you are using such a medication, it is imperative to tell your doctor about it.

This list is not complete. So tell your doctor about all the medications you take, if you smoke, or if you drink alcohol.

Things to be careful about when using the medicine

After receiving this vaccine, some people may experience dizziness, blurred vision when standing up , and a slight effect on your concentration and decision-making ability.

Therefore, it is best to avoid activities that require a lot of concentration, such as driving, working at heights, or operating machinery, until you know how this medication affects you. Drinking alcohol can increase these side effects.

What side effects might I experience?

Like all medicines, Icatibant can cause some side effects, although not everybody gets them. Some of these are serious and some are common.

This list does not include all side effects. If you notice anything unusual in addition to these, talk to your doctor about it.

How to store the medicine?

• Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets .
• Store at a temperature between 2 and 25 degrees Celsius (36-77 Fahrenheit). That means normal room temperature is fine.
• Keep the vaccine in the original container it was received in.
• Protect from light.
• Do not store in the freezer of the refrigerator.
• Do not keep expired medications. Dispose of them properly.

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