Icatibant (Firazyr)
Overview
A synthetic decapeptide bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist containing five non-natural amino acids for enhanced stability and receptor selectivity. Icatibant competitively blocks bradykinin, the primary mediator of swelling in hereditary angioedema (HAE) caused by C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency.
Mechanism of Action
By preventing bradykinin-induced vasodilation and increased vascular permeability, it rapidly reverses mucosal and subcutaneous edema.
Research Summary & Key Findings
FDA-approved in 2011 for acute attacks of hereditary angioedema in adults. FAST-3 trial demonstrated significant reduction in time to onset of symptom relief (2.0 hours vs. 19.8 hours for placebo) and time to almost complete symptom relief (Lumry et al., Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol, 2011). Self-administered via prefilled syringe, enabling on-demand home treatment. Second dose may be administered if symptoms persist or recur.
Clinical Status
Icatibant (Firazyr) has received FDA approval and is available for clinical use under appropriate medical supervision. Consult a qualified healthcare provider for prescribing information.
Administration Routes
References
Primary literature
- PubMed — "Icatibant"
Peer-reviewed literature indexed by the National Library of Medicine.
- ClinicalTrials.gov — "Icatibant"
Registered interventional and observational studies, including status and phase.
- PubChem — "Icatibant"
Chemical structure, molecular properties, and bioactivity data.
Study-level citations for this compound are being verified against the primary sources before publication. The database queries above return the current indexed literature in the meantime.
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