Icatibant and sebetralstat for treating hereditary angioedema attacks

Published on 05 Oct 2026
Last Updated on 05 Oct 2026

Guidance Recommendations

The Ministry of Health’s Drug Advisory Committee has recommended:

• Icatibant 30 mg/3 mL solution for injection in pre-filled syringe for treating acute attacks of hereditary angioedema (HAE) in patients aged 2 years and older with confirmed diagnosis of C1-esterase inhibitor deficiency. Patient must be treated by, or in consultation with, a specialist physician experienced in the diagnosis and management of HAE.

Funding status

Icatibant 30 mg/3 mL solution for injection in pre-filled syringe is recommended for inclusion on the Medication Assistance Fund (MAF) for the abovementioned indication from 1 December 2026.

MAF assistance does not apply to sebetralstat for treating HAE attacks.

Icatibant and sebetralstat for treating hereditary angioedema attacks (Published 5 Oct 2026) [PDF, 186.66 KB] (opens in new tab)

Plain English Summary

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare, genetic condition that is usually inherited. It is most commonly caused by a faulty gene that affects a blood protein called C1-inhibitor. When there is not enough C1-inhibitor, or it does not work properly, the body produces too much of a substance called bradykinin, which causes fluid to leak from blood vessels into surrounding tissues, leading in swelling.

Episodes of swelling (HAE attacks) can occur unpredictably and affect different parts of the body, including the face, hands, feet, genitals, stomach and intestines. Attacks affecting the gastrointestinal tract can cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Swelling in the throat can block the airway and may be life-threatening. Triggers vary between individuals and can include physical activity or injury, dental procedures, surgery, stress, and viral infections.

Icatibant and sebetralstat are on-demand treatments that can be used during an HAE attack to reduce the effects of bradykinin and relieve symptoms. Icatibant is a bradykinin B2 receptor antagonist given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneously), while sebetralstat is a plasma kallikrein inhibitor taken orally.

Icatibant was recommended for government subsidy as it was considered an acceptable use of healthcare resources. It is included in the Medication Assistance Fund (MAF) (opens in new tab), with its cost subsidised by 40% to 75% for eligible patients. Sebetralstat was not recommended for subsidy.