Self-administration of a novel subcutaneous bradykinin b2 receptor antagonist, icatibant, as an effective treatment option in patients with hereditary angioedema

Background Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) is a rare disease characterized by recurrent angioedema attacks involving larynx, abdomen, extremities and various body parts. The reactions are by and large self-limited, but potentially, could be fatal. Until recently, the only approved treatment in Canada is an intravenous C1-esterase inhibitor infusion. However, intravenous therapy can be challenging for those who have co-morbid disorders. Icatibant (Firazyr) —which received approval in Canada in June 2014 — offers administration through subcutaneous delivery. Through a special access program, here we present self-administered icatibant treatment on a female subject with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a rare genetic, neuromuscular disorder, which limits her ability to self-administer intravenous therapy.