Medications Used to Treat Hereditary Angioedema

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic condition. It causes severe swelling in different parts of the body. This swelling often happens in the face, throat, hands, feet, and stomach. Attacks can start without warning.¹

Attacks can last for 2 to 5 days without treatment. Knowing the signs of an attack can help you seek treatment early. Caregivers should also learn to spot these signs.^1,3

What are the goals of HAE treatment?

The main goals of treatment are to reduce swelling and keep people safe. Doctors want to stop attacks as soon as they start. They also want to prevent attacks from happening in the first place. Treatment helps people with HAE live normal lives.^2,3

Another major goal is to lower the stress of living with HAE. Constant fear of an attack can affect your mental health. Good treatment options can give you peace of mind. Your healthcare team can guide you toward these goals.¹

Treatment is divided into 2 main classes of medicines. These are:^2,3

• Acute medications
• Preventive medications

Every person with HAE should have a treatment plan. You should talk to your doctor to find the best plan for you.

Acute medications and how they work

Acute medication is also called on-demand treatment. You take these medicines during an attack. They work quickly to stop the swelling from getting worse. It is best to take them at the first sign of an attack.^1,3

There are a few types of acute medicines. Some medicines replace the missing C1 esterase inhibitor protein in your blood. Other medicines block the chemicals that cause fluid to leak into your tissues. You can inject these medicines (either intravenously or under the skin) or take them by mouth.^2,3

Early treatment helps your symptoms resolve as quickly as possible. Every person with HAE must have access to acute medicine. You should keep this medicine with you at all times. Travel with your medicine so you are always prepared. Caregivers and family members should also know how to give the medicine if needed.^1-3

Preventive medications and how they work

Preventive medication is also called prophylaxis. You take these medicines on a regular schedule. They help prevent swelling attacks before they start. People with frequent or severe attacks often use these medicines.^2,3

Preventive medicines can reduce the total number of attacks you experience. They can also make future attacks much less severe. This type of treatment provides long-term control over HAE. It can greatly improve your overall quality of life.^2,3

Some preventive medicines are taken 1 or 2 times each week. Other options are taken 1 time every 2 weeks or every day. These medicines keep steady levels of protection in your body. They block the swelling pathway before it can cause trouble.^2,3

These options include daily oral capsules or regular injections (intravenous or under the skin). Your doctor can help you choose the best administration method. Some people use short-term prophylaxis before medical or dental procedures (common triggers of an HAE attack).^2,3

Before beginning treatment for HAE, tell your doctor about all your health conditions. Tell them about any other drugs, vitamins, or supplements you take. This includes over-the-counter drugs. Your doctor will help you choose the safest options.

Work with your healthcare team

HAE is a serious condition that causes painful swelling. Modern medicines can help manage this condition well. Acute medicines stop attacks quickly when they happen. Preventive medicines work to stop attacks from starting.^1-3

You can work with your healthcare team to manage HAE. Do not wait to get help for your symptoms. Having the right medicines can keep you safe and comfortable. Talk to your doctor to create your personal treatment plan.