The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Kalbitor (ecallantide) on Dec. 1 to treat sudden and potentially life-threatening fluid buildup that can occur in people with a rare genetic condition known as hereditary angioedema (HAE).
HAE is caused by a defect in the blood protein C1 esterase-inhibitor, which plays a role in regulating how certain immune system and blood clotting pathways function. Decreased function of this protein can lead to rapid and serious swelling of the face or other parts of the body, which may result in permanent disfigurement, disability or death. Swelling of the digestive tract may cause excruciating abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, while airway swelling puts patients at risk of suffocation. About 10,000 people in the United States have HAE.
Kalbitor is a liquid that is intended to be injected under the skin for patients age 16 and older who experience HAE attacks.
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