Icatibant, a selective bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist, has been approved in many countries worldwide for the symptomatic treatment of acute attacks of types I and II hereditary angioedema (HAE) in adults since 2008. It was reported that icatibant was successful in the prevention of angioedema after thyroid biopsy in HAE type I. Icatibant has also reportedly been used for type III HAE, although it is not licensed for this indication. The objective of this report is to review the therapeutic and prophylactic effectiveness and harms of icatibant in the treatment of type III HAE.
Disclaimer: The Rapid Response Service is an information service for those involved in planning and providing health care in Canada. Rapid responses are based on a limited literature search and are not comprehensive, systematic reviews. The intent is to provide a list of sources and a summary of the best evidence on the topic that CADTH could identify using all reasonable efforts within the time allowed. Rapid responses should be considered along with other types of information and health care considerations. The information included in this response is not intended to replace professional medical advice, nor should it be construed as a recommendation for or against the use of a particular health technology. Readers are also cautioned that a lack of good quality evidence does not necessarily mean a lack of effectiveness particularly in the case of new and emerging health technologies, for which little information can be found, but which may in future prove to be effective. While CADTH has taken care in the preparation of the report to ensure that its contents are accurate, complete and up to date, CADTH does not make any guarantee to that effect. CADTH is not liable for any loss or damages resulting from use of the information in the report.