This product contains human factor VIII (also called
antihemophilic factor) and von Willebrand factor complex. Factors are
proteins normally found in the blood that help the blood to thicken (clot)
and stop any bleeding. People with low levels of factor VIII and von
Willebrand factor are at risk for bleeding longer after an injury/surgery
and for bleeding inside the body (especially into the joints and muscles).
This product is used to temporarily replace the missing factors and reduce
bleeding.
Different brands of this product have different amounts
of these factors, and so have different uses. These products are not
interchangeable. Do not change brands of this medication without the
approval of your doctor. Some products are used to control and prevent
bleeding episodes in people with low levels of factor VIII (hemophilia A).
Some products are used to control and prevent bleeding episodes in people
with low levels of von Willebrand factor (von Willebrand disease). Some
products are used to prevent excessive bleeding during and after surgery in
patients with von Willebrand disease.
This medication is given by slow injection into a vein
as directed by your doctor. How fast you receive this medication depends on
your dose and how you respond to it. See Side Effects
section.
This medication is given in a hemophilia treatment
center or hospital. In some cases, patients may be able to give this
medication to themselves at home. If your doctor directs you to give this
medication at home, read the product information available from your
pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a
refill. Learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product
package. If you have any questions, ask your health care
professional.
If the medication and the solution used to mix it were
refrigerated, bring both to room temperature before combining. After adding
the solution to the powder, gently swirl the vial to completely dissolve
the powder. Do not shake the vial. Before using, check this product for
particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.
After the medication is mixed, use right away.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight,
blood test results, and response to treatment. Follow your doctor's
instructions closely. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any
questions.
Learn how to store and discard needles and medical
supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
or if it gets worse.
Flushing of the face, nausea, vomiting, and fast
heartbeat may sometimes occur and can be lessened by giving this medication
more slowly. Burning/redness/irritation at the injection site, fever,
chills, and numbness/tingling of the hands/feet may also occur. If any of
these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist
promptly.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the
risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious
side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side
effects, including:
- signs of anemia (such as tiredness, low energy, pale skin
color, shortness of breath)
- new or worsening bleeding/bruising
This medication may rarely cause serious blood clots.
Get medical help right away if you notice any of the following very serious
side effects:
- pain/swelling/warmth in the groin/calf
- chest/jaw/left arm pain
- sudden vision changes
- confusion
- trouble speaking
- weakness on one side of the body
- sudden/severe headaches
- sudden dizziness/fainting
- shortness of breath/rapid breathing
- unusual sweating
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to any clotting factor products; or if you
have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients,
which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your
pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or
pharmacist your medical history.
Manufacturers of some factor VIII products recommend
that you monitor your heartbeat during treatment. If your heart starts to
beat faster, it is recommended that you give this medication more slowly or
temporarily stop the infusion until your heart rate returns to normal.
Consult your doctor for more details.
This medication is made from human blood. Even though
the blood is carefully tested, and this medication goes through a special
manufacturing process, there is an extremely small chance that you may get
infections from the medication (for example, viruses such as hepatitis).
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only
when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your
doctor.
It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk.
Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab tests (such as factor VIII levels, von Willebrand
factor levels, clotting tests) should be done while you are using this
medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for
more details.
It is important to follow the dosing schedule as
directed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist
right away for a new dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Different brands of this medication have different
storage needs. Check the product package for instructions on how to store
your brand, or ask your pharmacist. Keep all medications away from children
and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.
Your condition can cause complications in a medical
emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call
1-888-633-4298 (US) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).