| Common Brands | Berinert |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
C1 esterase inhibitor replacement |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
No Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Berinert is a treatment that is applied to the cases of acute attacks of hereditary angioedema. Hereditary angioedema is a rare genetic disease characterized by episodes of swelling in various parts of the body, including the face, extremities, and airway. It arises from a deficiency or dysfunction of the protein C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH), an essential protein in regulating inflammation and preventing the formation of excessive swelling.
Berinert is a C1 esterase inhibitor concentrate derived from human plasma. It is given to replace the missing or deficient C1-INH protein in HAE patients, helping reduce the severity and duration of angioedema attacks. Berinert is usually administered intravenously and is most effective if administered early in an acute attack.
Berinert is administered through intravenous (IV) infusion. The infusion should be provided by a healthcare professional and must be given in an appropriate medical facility, while patients who have been trained by the healthcare provider can make self-administer the medicine at home during an acute HAE attack.
Dosage: The usual dosage of Berinert in adult and pediatric patients is 20 units/kg administered through an IV infusion. In some cases, the dosage may have to be adjusted based on the severity of the attack and the patient’s clinical response.
Administration: Berinert infusion is administered slowly over a time span of 5 to 10 minutes. The infusion must be observed for signs of allergic reaction or side effects before and after administration.
Frequency: Berinert is administered on demand during an acute attack. If the second dose is needed, it is administered 3 to 4 hours following the first dose.
Hereditary angioedema is caused due to a lack or the malfunctioning of C1 esterase inhibitor, one of the key proteins that regulate and control the functioning of a part of the immune response called the complement system. Normally, when low levels of C1-INH result in an overly active state of the complement system, substances are produced that may increase vascular permeability by causing fluid retention in the tissues, producing swelling.
Berinert works to provide an exogenous source of functional C1-INH, which helps regulate the complement system and prevent the activation of the proteins that lead to the swelling associated with HAE. Intravenous delivery of Berinert increases C1-INH levels within the bloodstream, which would reduce the activation of the complement pathway and thereby avoid or reduce the severity of angioedema attacks.
Berinert helps control swelling, relieve symptoms, and shorten the duration of acute HAE episodes by restoring normal function to the complement system. The drug is most effective when given early in an attack.
Although Berinert is safe, there are always possible side effects, such as
Allergic Reactions: This can manifest as rash, itching, shortness of breath, or swelling, and it may call for emergency medical attention.
Headache: Some patients experience mild headache following the infusion of Berinert.
Fever or Chills: It is a possible sign of a reaction to the medication that may present during or after infusion.
Nausea: There is usually some mild discomfort in the gastrointestinal system.
Dizziness or Dizziness: In line with any intravenous drug, dizziness could happen at the time of the infusion and post-infusion.
Hypersensitivity: Patients with known hypersensitivity to Berinert or any of its components should not receive it. Any signs of allergic reaction should be immediately addressed by discontinuing the infusion and seeking emergency care.
Thromboembolic Events: Although rare, patients with a history of blood clotting disorders or those at increased risk of thromboembolic events (such as deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism) should use Berinert with caution. Close monitoring is recommended.
Monitoring: Patients receiving Berinert should be monitored for signs of anaphylaxis, especially during the initial infusion. Medical personnel should be available to manage any serious allergic reactions or complications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Berinert in pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. Thus, it should be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.
Renal and Liver Function: Caution should be exercised when using Berinert in patients with impaired liver or kidney function, as their ability to process the drug may be affected.
Immunosuppressive Drugs: Using Berinert with immunosuppressants may increase the risk of infections, as both can affect the immune system.
Anticoagulants: Combining Berinert with blood thinners like warfarin may increase the risk of bleeding, so monitoring is advised.
Live Vaccines: Berinert should not be used with live vaccines, as it can affect immune responses and may reduce the effectiveness of the vaccine.
Other C1 Esterase Inhibitors: When used alongside other C1 esterase inhibitors, there may be an increased risk of adverse effects like allergic reactions or fever. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining treatments.
For Acute Attacks of Hereditary Angioedema (HAE):
Dose: 20 units/kg body weight, given as intravenous infusion.
The dose can be repeated after 3-4 hours if the signs and symptoms continue.
The cumulative dose for each patient will depend on the weight; the physician will determine how much to give to a patient.
Berinert is a prescription drug and, therefore, needs to be prescribed by a doctor. It is generally prescribed for patients with hereditary angioedema who experience acute attacks. Because Berinert is given intravenously, it can be given only in the presence of medical care; however, for patients who meet certain conditions, they can be educated on self-administration.
What is Berinert?
How does Berinert work?
What are the common uses of Berinert?
How is Berinert administered?
What are the possible side effects of Berinert?
Is Berinert safe for everyone?
Can Berinert be used during pregnancy?
What should I do if I miss a dose of Berinert?
Can Berinert be taken with other medications?
How quickly does Berinert work after administration?
Is Berinert a controlled substance?
How should Berinert be stored?
Are there any long-term effects of using Berinert?
Can children use Berinert?
What factors influence the dosage of Berinert?
What should be done in case of an allergic reaction to Berinert?
Can I self-administer Berinert at home?
Is Berinert effective for all types of angioedema?
What is the difference between Berinert and other HAE treatments?
Where can I find more information about Berinert?
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