Firazyr Approved to Treat Rapid Swelling Due to Attacks of Hereditary Angioedema

The Food and Drug Administration Aug. 25 approved Firazyr (icatibant) injection for treating acute attacks of a rare condition called hereditary angioedema (HAE) in people ages 18 years and older.

HAE is caused by low levels or the improper function of a protein called C1 inhibitor, which is involved in regulating how certain immune system and blood-clotting pathways function, the agency said. There usually is a family history of the condition. Fewer than 30,000 people in the United States have HAE.

People with HAE can develop rapid swelling of the hands, feet, limbs, face, intestinal tract, voice box, or windpipe, ...