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Ruconest (C1 esterase inhibitor [recombinant]) is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat sudden attacks of hereditary angioedema (HAE) in adults and adolescents.
Ruconest is a type of C1 esterase inhibitor. It helps control body systems involved in swelling and blood vessel leakiness.
People with HAE have low levels of C1 esterase inhibitor or have a form that does not work properly. Ruconest increases the amount of working C1 esterase inhibitor in the blood.
Ruconest inactivates proteins called kallikrein and factor XIIa (12a). This is thought to help prevent the production of bradykinin. Bradykinin can make blood vessels leak fluid and cause swelling.
Doctors prescribe Ruconest to treat acute HAE attacks in adults and adolescents.
Ruconest is given as a slow intravenous (IV) injection into a vein over about five minutes. With proper training from a qualified healthcare professional, a person may give Ruconest when they recognize the symptoms of an HAE attack.
The recommended injection rate is approximately 4 milliliters per minute. With proper training, an appropriate person or caregiver may give Ruconest when they recognize the symptoms of an HAE attack.
Each vial is for one-time use and contains no preservative. Use the mixed solution right away when possible. If it is not used right away, it may be stored in a refrigerator at 35.6 degrees Fahrenheit to 46.4 degrees Fahrenheit for up to eight hours. Do not freeze it. Throw away any unused solution.
The recommended dose of Ruconest for HAE is based on body weight. People who weigh less than 84 kilograms receive 50 units per kilogram. People who weigh 84 kilograms or more receive the maximum dose of 4,200 units. It is given slowly into a vein over about five minutes.
A second dose may be given if symptoms continue. Do not use more than 4,200 units in one dose. Do not use more than two doses within 24 hours.
This information is based on prescribing information, but your healthcare provider may tailor your treatment plan. Always follow their guidance.
In clinical studies, the most common side effects of Ruconest occurred in about 2 percent to 10 percent of people. These include:
Ruconest can cause serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention. These include:
Get medical help right away if you think you are having a serious reaction.
Pharming Healthcare, the manufacturer of Ruconest, offers Ruconest Solutions. Eligible people with commercial insurance may qualify for copay assistance. The program also provides information about other financial assistance options based on insurance coverage.
Ruconest Solutions also offers help understanding insurance coverage, support navigating access and reimbursement, self-administration training from a Ruconest patient advocate, and access to the StarterRx Program for eligible people beginning treatment.
To learn more, visit the Ruconest Solutions website or call 855-613-4423.
Do not use Ruconest if you are allergic to rabbits or products made from rabbits. Also, do not use it if you have had a life-threatening allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis, to a C1 esterase inhibitor medicine.
Tell your doctor if you have had a blood clot or have risk factors for blood clots. These may include:
Tell your doctor about all medicines you take, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Do not take Ruconest if you have a history of allergy to rabbits or rabbit-derived products, or if you have had a life-threatening immediate hypersensitivity reaction (including anaphylaxis) to C1 esterase inhibitor preparations.
If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding while taking Ruconest, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits.
These answers are fact-checked by our editorial staff.
How effective is Ruconest for HAE?
In a study of 75 adults and adolescents with HAE, the median time to the start of symptom relief was 90 minutes with Ruconest. It was 152 minutes with placebo (an inactive treatment).
Within four hours, relief occurred in 88 percent of abdominal attacks with Ruconest, compared with 58 percent with placebo; 50 percent of facial attacks with Ruconest, compared with 0 percent with placebo; and 85 percent of attacks in the arms or legs with Ruconest, compared with 50 percent with placebo.
In an extension study, the median time to the start of relief was 75 minutes across 170 attacks. Other studies also found that Ruconest worked faster than placebo, and its effect was maintained when used for repeat attacks.
How long does Ruconest take to work for HAE?
In the main study, the median time to the start of symptom relief was 90 minutes. In an extension study, it was 75 minutes. Results can vary by person and by attack.
Can I self-administer Ruconest for HAE?
Yes. A person who has been properly trained by a qualified healthcare professional may give Ruconest when they recognize the symptoms of an HAE attack. You should be trained to prepare the medicine and give it safely into a vein.
Ruconest has not been shown to be effective for laryngeal attacks, which are attacks involving the throat. Get emergency medical help right away if you have throat swelling or trouble breathing.
On myHAEteam, people share their experiences with HAE, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
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