C1-esterase inhibitor, human is used to treat and prevent attacks of angioedema (swelling of the deep layers of the skin usually around the face, throat, and lips) for individuals with a rare genetic condition called hereditary angioedema.
C1-esterase inhibitor, human injection is to be given intravenously (into the vein) as an infusion or subcutaneously (into the fatty layer under the skin, usually in the abdomen area).
Your doctor or nurse will administer the injection for you.
If you or your caregiver had been given the proper training on the preparation and injection techniques of this medicine, you or your caregiver may do the administration.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the course of treatment depending on the type and severity of your condition and your response to the medication.
Ensure that you keep all appointments with your doctor so that you do not miss any doses. Your doctor also needs to regularly monitor your response to C1-esterase inhibitor, human.
If you miss an appointment or miss an injection, alert your doctor or nurse. A replacement appointment or injection should be given as soon as possible.
If you or a caregiver had been trained to administer this medicine and missed a dose, inject the missed dose as soon as you remember and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
Inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you forgot to administer your dose.
Do not use C1-esterase inhibitor, human if you ever had an allergic reaction (e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swollen eyes) to this medicine.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- laryngeal oedema (swelling of the voice box)
- history of blood clotting problems
- atherosclerosis (thickening or hardening of the blood vessels of the heart)
- obesity
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Be sure to check with your doctor or pharmacist before giving C1-esterase inhibitor, human to a child. Children may be more sensitive to the side effects.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Regular monitoring for signs and symptoms of allergic reactions (e.g. chest tightness, wheezing, skin redness or itching, hypotension) and blood clotting problems may also be needed.
C1-esterase inhibitor, human may cause any of the following side effects: headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, cough, sore throat, fever, chills, joint swelling or pain, muscle pain, and injection site reactions.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction e.g. rashes, breathlessness, swelling of the face, eyes or mouth
- signs and symptoms of blood clots in a lung artery e.g. shortness of breath, chest pain, cough which may contain blood
- pain, swelling and tenderness in your leg accompanied by redness and warmth
- signs and symptoms of a heart attack e.g. chest tightness or pressure, pain that may spread to the arms, jaw, neck, shoulder or back, shortness of breath, lightheadedness
- weakness or numbness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, vision problems, changes in balance or coordination
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking or using any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Do not freeze. Protect from light.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.