Takhzyro

Takhzyro is the brand name for lanadelumab, a human monoclonal antibody used to prevent attacks in people with hereditary angioedema (HAE). It works by inhibiting plasma kallikrein, which reduces the production of bradykinin, a molecule that increases vascular permeability and contributes to angioedema attacks.

Indication and use: Takhzyro is approved for routine prophylaxis to prevent angioedema attacks in individuals aged 12 years and older with hereditary angioedema due to C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency or dysfunction. It is intended to reduce the frequency of attacks rather than treat an ongoing attack.

Administration and dosing: The medicine is given by subcutaneous injection. The approved dosing regimens are 300 mg every two weeks or 300 mg every four weeks, with the choice of regimen guided by disease control and clinician judgment. Patients may learn to self-administer after proper instruction.

Efficacy: In phase 3 clinical trials, lanadelumab significantly reduced the frequency of HAE attacks compared with placebo and provided meaningful attack control for many patients. Benefit typically becomes evident after several weeks of treatment and is maintained with ongoing dosing.

Safety and precautions: The most common adverse effects reported include injection-site reactions and upper respiratory tract infections. Rare but serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have been observed; patients are monitored after initial doses and advised to seek prompt medical care if symptoms of a severe allergic reaction occur.

Regulatory status: Takhzyro has received regulatory approvals for HAE prophylaxis in the United States and other regions, reflecting its role as a targeted preventive therapy for hereditary angioedema.