Conestat alfa

Conestat alfa is a recombinant form of human C1 esterase inhibitor that is used in the treatment of hereditary angioedema (HAE). It is produced by Pharming Group, a Dutch biotechnology company, and is marketed under the brand name Ruconest.

History

Conestat alfa was first approved for use in the European Union in October 2010. It was subsequently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States in July 2014.

Medical uses

Conestat alfa is used for the treatment of acute attacks of hereditary angioedema (HAE), a rare genetic disorder characterized by episodes of severe swelling in various parts of the body. It is also used as a prophylactic treatment to prevent HAE attacks in patients with a known history of the condition.

Mechanism of action

Conestat alfa works by replacing the deficient C1 esterase inhibitor protein in patients with HAE. This protein plays a crucial role in regulating the complement system, a part of the immune system that mediates inflammation. By replacing the deficient protein, conestat alfa helps to control the excessive inflammation that leads to the symptoms of HAE.

Side effects

The most common side effects of conestat alfa include headache, nausea, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause serious allergic reactions.

See also

• Hereditary angioedema
• C1 esterase inhibitor
• Pharming Group