Generic name: ecallantide [ e-KAL-an-tide ]
Brand name: Kalbitor
Dosage form: subcutaneous solution (10 mg/mL)
Drug class: Hereditary angioedema agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jun 3, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is ecallantide?

Ecallantide is used to treat attacks of hereditary angioedema (an immune system disorder). ecallantide is for use in adults and children at least 12 years old.

Ecallantide is not a cure for hereditary angioedema.

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

Ecallantide side effects

Ecallantide can cause a serious allergic reaction within 1 hour after injection. Tell your caregivers right away if you have:

• chest pain or tightness, fast or weak heartbeat;

• wheezing, cough, throat irritation, trouble breathing;

• hoarse voice, tight feeling in your throat, trouble swallowing;

• swelling of your lips, tongue, or throat;

• swelling or redness in your face;

• itching, rash, or hives;

• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);

• sneezing, runny or stuffy nose; or

• dizziness, feeling like you might pass out.

An allergic reaction may have the same symptoms as hereditary angioedema. Your caregivers will watch you closely and will quickly treat an allergic reaction.

Common side effects of ecallantide may include:

• headache;

• nausea, diarrhea;

• fever;

• stuffy nose, sore throat; or

• skin reactions where the medicine was injected (redness, rash, itching, bruising, swelling).

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.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Ecallantide can cause a serious allergic reaction within 1 hour after injection. Symptoms include wheezing, cough, trouble breathing or swallowing, itching, hives, dizziness, fainting, or swelling in your face or throat.

Before taking this medicine

If possible during an emergency, tell your caregivers you have any type of allergy. Make sure any follow-up doctor knows you received ecallantide.

You should not be treated with ecallantide if you are allergic to it.

If possible during an emergency, tell your caregivers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How is ecallantide given?

Ecallantide is injected under the skin by a healthcare provider, usually in 3 separate injections.

You will be watched closely to make sure you do not have an allergic reaction to the medication.

If you still have angioedema symptoms after 3 injections, more may be given within 24 hours.

Ecallantide dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Hereditary Angioedema:

30 mg subcutaneously in three 10 mg injections; may repeat an additional 30 mg within 24 hours if attack persists.

Usual Pediatric Dose for Hereditary Angioedema:

12 years and older: 30 mg subcutaneously in three 10 mg injections; may repeat an additional 30 mg within 24 hours if attack persists.

What happens if I miss a dose?

In a medical setting you are not likely to miss a dose.

What happens if I overdose?

In a medical setting an overdose would be treated quickly.

What should I avoid after receiving ecallantide?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect ecallantide?

Other drugs may affect ecallantide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Ecallantide Biosimilars

Biosimilar and interchangeable products are biological products that are highly similar to and have no clinically meaningful differences from the reference product.

Reference products

These are biological products that have already been approved by the FDA, against which biosimilar products are compared. There is 1 for ecallantide.

Popular FAQ

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Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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