Medications and Drugs

Brand Names: Berinert, Cinryze

Generic Name: complement C1 esterase inhibitor (Pronunciation: KOM ple ment C1 ES ter ase in HIB it or)

What is complement C1 esterase inhibitor (Berinert, Cinryze)?

Complement C1 esterase inhibitor is a man-made form of a protein that occurs naturally in the bloodstream and helps control inflammation in the body. In people with hereditary angioedema, complement C1 esterase inhibitor does not function properly or occurs in low levels.

Complement C1 esterase inhibitor is used in people with hereditary angioedema. The Berinert brand of this medication is used to treat attacks of angioedema. The Cinryze brand is used to prevent attacks of angioedema.

Complement C1 esterase inhibitor may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of complement C1 esterase inhibitor (Berinert, Cinryze)?

Stop your IV infusion and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; wheezing or difficult breathing; feeling like you might pass out; or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any other serious side effect, such as:

new or worsening pain;
sudden numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body;
sudden headache, confusion, problems with vision, speech, or balance;
stomach pain or swelling;
chest pain, sudden cough, rapid breathing, fast heart rate; or
pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in one or both legs.

Less serious side effects may include:

nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain;
cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat;
mild itching or rash; or
mild headache.

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 is the most important information I should know about complement C1 esterase inhibitor (Berinert, Cinryze)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to it, or if you have ever had any life-threatening allergic reaction.

Before you receive complement C1 esterase inhibitor, tell your doctor if you have a history of stroke or blood clot.

Do not give this medication to a child without medical advice.

You may be shown how to use Cinryze in an IV at home. This medication comes with patient instructions for safe and effective use. Follow all directions carefully. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Do not self-inject this medicine if you do not fully understand how to give the injection and properly dispose of used needles, IV tubing, and other items used to inject the medicine. Be sure you understand how to properly mix and store the medication.

Other serious side effects may include sudden numbness or weakness, chest pain, confusion, pain or swelling, and problems with vision, speech, or balance.

Complement C1 esterase inhibitor is made from human plasma (part of the blood) which may contain viruses and other infectious agents. Donated plasma is tested and treated to reduce the risk of it containing infectious agents, but there is still a small possibility it could transmit disease. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication.

What should I discuss with my health care provider before using complement C1 esterase inhibitor (Berinert, Cinryze)?»

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Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.