Skip to main content

What is Takhzyro used for and how does it work?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on March 30, 2023.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Key Points

  • Takhzyro (lanadelumab-flyo) is used for the prevention hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks in people 2 years of age and older.
  • Takhzyro works by blocking the activity of kallikrein, a protein in the body that can lead to HAE attacks. Blocking kallikrein helps to slow down the release of bradykinin (an inflammatory peptide) and reduce the number of HAE attacks.

Takhzyro is classified as a plasma kallikrein inhibitor and is the first monoclonal antibody approved to prevent HAE in the US. Takhzyro is given as a subcutaneous (under the skin) injection once every 2 weeks.

  • In a study of 125 patients with HAE, those who received Takhzyro had significant reductions in HAE attacks compared to a placebo (an inactive sugar pill) over a 6-month treatment period.
  • Approval in children was supported by data from the Phase 3 HELP study and SPRING Study in children 2 to <12 Years of Age.
  • Common side effects in at least 10% of people include injection site reactions, upper respiratory infections, headache, rash, muscle pain, dizziness and diarrhea. These are not all the possible side effects with Takhzyro, so speak with your doctor for more information.

What is HAE?

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare disease that affects an estimated 1 in 50,000 people, usually begins in childhood and often worsens following puberty. Hereditary means you have angioedema that runs in your family.

HAE can lead to accumulation of fluid and swelling in the deep layers of your skin, often around the eyes, mouth or cheeks. Angioedema can be life-threatening if swelling causes your throat to swell or your tongue to block your airway and breathing.

HAE can be variable: some people may have several attacks each month, but others may go months without an attack at all.

This is not all the information you need to know about Takhzyro (lanadelumab-flyo) for safe and effective use and does not take the place of talking to your doctor about your treatment. Review the full Takhzyro information here, and discuss this information and any questions you have with your doctor or other health care provider.

References

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups