Although HAE does not currently have a cure, there are three treatment options for attacks (also known as ‘acute attacks’) of HAE:
C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) therapy works by replacing the missing or malfunctioning C1-INH protein in patients with a C1-INH deficiency. C1-INH for acute attacks is given when an attack occurs, ideally at the first sign of the attack (when prodromal symptoms occur – see Recognising the signs of an HAE attack).
Bradykinin inhibitor directly blocks bradykinin, a protein thought to be responsible for HAE symptoms. Bradykinin inhibitor for acute attacks is given when an attack occurs, ideally at the first sign of the attack.
Recombinant C1 esterase inhibitor (rhC1INH) is a recombinant (i.e. not made from human plasma) version of C1 esterase inhibitor. rhC1INH for acute attacks is given when an attack occurs, ideally at the first sign of the attack.
Treatment is also available that aims to prevent attacks of HAE (known as prophylactic treatment). This is ongoing treatment, which your doctor may recommend if you have frequent or severe attacks.
C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) therapy works by replacing the missing or malfunctioning C1-INH protein in patients with a C1-INH deficiency. As well as treating acute attacks, C1-INH can be given regularly as a preventative treatment, which works by increasing the levels of the C1-INH protein in the plasma.
Monoclonal antibodies are a type of protein made in a laboratory that bind to specific substances in the body. In HAE, they can be used to bind the protein that makes bradykinin, stopping it from being made. Bradykinin is the protein thought to lead to HAE attacks. This sort of treatment is not intended to treat acute attacks and you should use your approved rescue medication if you experience a HAE attack.
Some HAE attacks can be extremely serious.
Throat swelling that blocks the airway and prevents normal breathing is potentially life-threatening, and therefore requires immediate emergency care. Some of the symptoms of throat swelling may include a hoarse voice or laryngitis, difficulty in swallowing, throat tightness, and other voice changes.
Intestinal swelling which can cause intense abdominal pain that can progress to vomiting and diarrhoea; intestinal swelling can be mistaken for an abdominal disorder, such as appendicitis, as the symptoms can be similar, which makes diagnosis difficult.
If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in the package leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk.
By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of your medicine.
