Medications and Drugs

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Brand Names: Kalbitor

Generic Name: ecallantide (Pronunciation: e KAL an tide)

• What is ecallantide (Kalbitor)?
• What are the possible side effects of ecallantide (Kalbitor)?
• What is the most important information I should know about ecallantide (Kalbitor)?
• What should I discuss with my health care provider before receiving ecallantide (Kalbitor)?
• How is ecallantide given (Kalbitor)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Kalbitor)?
• What happens if I overdose (Kalbitor)?
• What should I avoid after receiving ecallantide (Kalbitor)?
• What other drugs will affect ecallantide (Kalbitor)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is ecallantide (Kalbitor)?

Ecallantide is used to treat attacks of hereditary angioedema (an immune system disorder). This medication is used in people who are at least 16 years old.

Ecallantide is not a cure for hereditary angioedema.

Ecallantide may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What are the possible side effects of ecallantide (Kalbitor)?

Tell your caregivers right away if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction within 1 hour after receiving ecallantide:

• chest pain or discomfort, fast or weak heartbeat;
• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
• feeling like you might pass out;
• itching, rash, or hives;
• runny nose, sneezing, stuffy nose;
• wheezing, cough, throat irritation, trouble breathing; or
• swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

An allergic reaction to ecallantide can cause symptoms that are very similar to the signs of hereditary angioedema. Your caregivers will watch you closely while you are receiving ecallantide to make sure you are not having an allergic reaction.

Less serious side effects may include:

• headache;
• stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• fever;
• tired feeling;
• sore throat; or
• pain, bruising, itching, redness, rash, or irritation where the injection was given.

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 ecallantide (Kalbitor)?

You should not receive ecallantide if you are allergic to it.

Before you receive ecallantide, tell your doctor if you have a history of any type of allergy.

In an emergency situation it may not be possible before you are treated to tell your caregivers about your health conditions or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Make sure any doctor caring for you afterward knows that you have received this medication.

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