Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Complement C1 Esterase Inhibitor?
Complement C1 esterase inhibitor is a man-made form of a protein in blood that helps control swelling in the body. People with a condition called hereditary angioedema do not have enough of this protein. Hereditary angioedema can cause attacks of swelling and symptoms such as stomach problems or trouble breathing.
Complement C1 esterase inhibitor is used in people with hereditary angioedema. Berinert is used to treat attacks of angioedema. Cinryze and Haegarda are used to prevent attacks of angioedema.
Complement C1 esterase inhibitor may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use this medicine if have ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction to complement C1 esterase inhibitor.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- a stroke or blood clot;
- heart problems; or
- an "in-dwelling" catheter.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
Complement C1 esterase inhibitor is made from donated human plasma and may contain viruses or other infectious agents. Donated plasma is tested and treated to reduce the risk of contamination, but there is still a small possibility it could transmit disease. Ask your doctor about any possible risk.
How should I use Complement C1 Esterase Inhibitor
Use Complement C1 Esterase Inhibitor (Haegarda) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Cinryze or Berinert are given as an infusion into a vein. Haegarda is injected under the skin. A healthcare provider will give your first dose and may teach you how to properly use the medication by yourself.
Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Prepare an injection only when you are ready to give it. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't understand all instructions.
Seek emergency medical attention after using Berinert to treat an angioedema attack.
Storing unopened vials: Store in a refrigerator or at cool room temperature and use until expiration date. Protect from light and do not freeze.
Each vial (bottle) is for one use only. Throw it away after one use, even if there is still medicine left inside.
After mixing Cinryze, use the injection right away or store at room temperature and use within 3 hours.
After mixing Berinert or Haegarda, use the injection right away or store at room temperature and use within 8 hours.
Complement C1 esterase inhibitor contains no preservative. Once you have pierced the rubber top of a vial with a needle, you must use that vial right away or throw it away.
Use a needle and syringe only once and then place them in a puncture-proof "sharps" container. Follow state or local laws about how to dispose of this container. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
Call your doctor for instructions if you miss a dose of Cinryzeor Haegarda.
Keep Cinryze or Haegarda on hand at all times to prevent angioedema, especially while traveling.
Complement C1 Esterase Inhibitor side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; chest tightness, fast heartbeats, feeling light-headed; wheezing or difficult breathing, blue lips or gums; or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body;
- pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in an arm or leg;
- sudden severe headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;
- chest pain while taking deep breaths; or
- fast heart rate.
Common side effects may include:
- unusual or unpleasant taste in your mouth;
- headache, dizziness;
- nausea, vomiting;
- pain, bruising, itching, swelling, bleeding, warmth, or a hard lump where the medicine was injected;
- stuffy nose, sore throat;
- rash; or
- fever.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Complement C1 Esterase Inhibitor?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.