Kalbitor (ecallantide) is used to treat attacks of hereditary angioedema (an immune system disorder). This medication is used in people who are at least 12 years old.
Kalbitor is not a cure for hereditary angioedema.
Kalbitor may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Important information
You should not receive Kalbitor if you are allergic to ecallantide.
Before you receive Kalbitor, 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.
Before receiving Kalbitor
You should not receive Kalbitor if you are allergic to ecallantide.
Before you receive Kalbitor, tell your doctor if you have a history of any type of allergy.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether Kalbitor will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether ecallantide passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. In an emergency situation, it may not be possible before you are treated with Kalbitor to tell your caregivers if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Make sure any doctor caring for your pregnancy or your baby knows you have received this medication.
See also: Pregnancy and breastfeeding warnings (in more detail)
How is Kalbitor given?
Kalbitor is injected under the skin. You will receive this injection in a clinic or hospital setting where you can be monitored in case the medication causes serious side effects.
Kalbitor is usually given in 3 separate injections. If you still have symptoms of the angioedema attack, more injections may be given within 24 hours.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Kalbitor is given by a healthcare professional, you are not likely to miss a dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Since this medication is given by a healthcare professional in a medical setting, an overdose is unlikely to occur.
What should I avoid?
Follow your doctor"s instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Kalbitor side effects
Tell your caregivers right away if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction within 1 hour after receiving Kalbitor:
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chest pain or discomfort, fast or weak heartbeat;
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flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
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feeling like you might pass out;
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itching, rash, or hives;
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runny nose, sneezing, stuffy nose;
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wheezing, cough, throat irritation, trouble breathing; or
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swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
An allergic reaction to Kalbitor can cause symptoms that are very similar to the signs of hereditary angioedema. Your caregivers will watch you closely while you are receiving Kalbitor to make sure you are not having an allergic reaction.
Less serious Kalbitor side effects may include:
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headache;
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stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
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fever;
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tired feeling;
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sore throat; or
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pain, bruising, itching, redness, rash, or irritation where the injection was given.
This is not a complete list of Kalbitor 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.
See also: Side effects (in more detail)
What other drugs will affect Kalbitor?
There may be other drugs that can interact with Kalbitor. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
