How KALBITOR Works

KALBITOR treats acute HAE attacks by blocking the activity of a protein in the body called plasma kallikrein.  In patients with hereditary angioedema, plasma kallikrein activity is not controlled properly.

During an HAE attack:

  • Levels of activated plasma kallikrein are increased within the body
  • This triggers a release of a substance that causes veins to leak fluid
  • Leaked fluid builds up in the tissues just under the skin in various parts of the body
  • This causes the swelling and pain of an acute HAE attack


KALBITOR blocks plasma kallikrein:

  • Limiting the release of the chemical that causes veins to leak
  • Allows the swelling and pain to improve

About KALBITOR Injections

KALBITOR injections should only be given by a doctor or a nurse in a healthcare setting where serious allergic reactions and your hereditary angioedema can be treated. Your doctor or nurse will inject KALBITOR just under your skin, typically in your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.

A typical acute HAE attack can last from 2 to 5 days without treatment. KALBITOR treatment has been proven to improve HAE attacks symptoms at 4 hours and may reduce the need for other medications to treat your acute HAE attacks.

KALBITOR is not a blood product. The active ingredient in KALBITOR injection is ecallantide, which is a small protein made in yeast cells.

You should read the Medication Guide before you start receiving KALBITOR and before each treatment.