This medication is used to control and prevent bleeding
episodes in people with low levels of factor VIII (hemophilia A). It is
also used in these patients before surgery to prevent bleeding. People with
low factor VIII levels are at risk for bleeding longer after an
injury/surgery and for bleeding inside the body (especially into the joints
and muscles). This product contains a man-made form of factor VIII, also
called antihemophilic factor. This product is used to temporarily replace
the missing factor VIII, a protein (clotting factor) that is normally in
the blood, so that the blood can clot and the bleeding can
stop.
This medication should not be used to treat von
Willebrand disease.
This medication is given by injection into a vein as
directed by your doctor. The medication may need to be given more slowly
over a longer time depending on your dose and how you respond to
it.
After first receiving this medication in a hemophilia
treatment center or hospital, some 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 Patient Information Leaflet and Instructions
for Use if 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. Learn how to store and discard needles
and medical supplies safely. 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 mixing. After adding
the solution to the powder, gently swirl the mixture to completely dissolve
the powder. Do not shake. Before using, check this product for particles or
discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Use right away
according to the product instructions.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, age,
weight, blood test results, and response to treatment. Follow your doctor's
instructions closely.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better
or if it gets worse.
Flushing of the face, headache, nausea, and fast
heartbeat may sometimes occur and can be lessened by giving this medication
more slowly. Burning/redness/irritation at the injection site, fever, and
chills 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.
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
- chest discomfort/tightness
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 antihemophilic factor (factor VIII)
products; or if you have any other allergies. Some brands may also contain
polyethylene glycol (PEG), or inactive ingredients (such as natural
rubber/latex), 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, especially of:
- a certain type of hemophilia (congenital hemophilia A with
inhibitors)
Manufacturers of some brands of this medication
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.
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) 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).