The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new medicine called Takhzyro (lanadelumab-flyo) to help prevent attacks of hereditary angioedema, or HAE. HAE is a rare inherited condition that causes sudden, severe swelling in different parts of the body, including the skin, stomach, and throat. Swelling in the throat can be life-threatening, so preventing attacks is very important.
Takhzyro is a type of medicine called a monoclonal antibody. It works by blocking a protein in the blood that is involved in causing HAE attacks. This is the first monoclonal antibody approved for preventing HAE attacks. It is given as an injection under the skin, and patients or caregivers can be trained to give it at home. For younger children, a healthcare provider or caregiver should give the injection.
The approval is based on a study of 125 patients aged 12 and older with HAE. The study showed that Takhzyro significantly reduced the number of attacks compared to a placebo over 26 weeks. The medicine can be given every 2 or 4 weeks, depending on the patient's needs.
It is important to remember that Takhzyro is for prevention only. It does not stop an attack once it starts. If you or a loved one has HAE, talk to your doctor to see if Takhzyro might be a good option for you. Your doctor can help you understand the benefits and risks, and decide if this new medicine fits into your treatment plan.