Indications
This product is a concentrate of two clotting proteins, antihaemophilic factor (factor VIII) and von Willebrand factor, made from donated human plasma. It is used to prevent and treat bleeding in people with haemophilia A (an inherited lack of factor VIII). It is also used in people with von Willebrand disease to control bleeding or to cover surgery or procedures when Desmopressin is not suitable or not enough.
How It Works
Factor VIII and von Willebrand factor are needed for blood to clot normally. Von Willebrand factor helps platelets stick to a damaged blood vessel and also carries and protects factor VIII in the blood. People who lack either protein bleed for longer than normal. The concentrate temporarily replaces the missing proteins so that blood can clot and bleeding stops.
Dosage and Administration
It is given as a slow injection into a vein by a doctor or nurse, or at home by a trained patient or carer under a haemophilia specialist’s plan. The dose and how often it is given depend on body weight, the type of bleeding disorder, the site and severity of bleeding, and blood test results, and are set by the specialist. The powder is mixed with the supplied diluent just before use. Follow the treatment plan exactly as prescribed.
Interactions
No major interactions with other medicines are known. It should not be mixed with other medicines in the same syringe or drip. Antifibrinolytic medicines such as Tranexamic acid are sometimes used alongside it, as decided by the specialist. Tell the doctor about all medicines, especially anything that affects bleeding such as Aspirin, anti-inflammatory painkillers or anticoagulants.
Contraindications
It must not be used by anyone who has had a severe allergic reaction to this concentrate or any of its ingredients.
Side Effects
Possible side effects include:
- Itching, rash, flushing or hives
- Headache, fever, chills or nausea
- Tingling, a change in taste, or discomfort at the injection site
- Development of antibodies (inhibitors) that stop the treatment from working, shown by bleeding that does not respond as usual
- Rarely, blood clots, especially with repeated high doses
Get urgent medical help if you have difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness, swelling of the face or throat, fainting, or if bleeding is not controlled by the usual dose. Also seek help for pain or swelling in a leg, chest pain or sudden breathlessness, which may signal a blood clot.
Pregnancy and Lactation
There is limited information on use in pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is used only when clearly needed, for example to manage bleeding or delivery in women with von Willebrand disease, under specialist care.
Precautions and Warnings
Because it is made from human plasma, there is a very small risk of passing on infections. Donors are screened and the product is treated to inactivate viruses; vaccination against hepatitis A and B may be advised. Regular blood tests check factor levels and inhibitors. Factor levels are monitored to avoid levels that are too high, which may raise the risk of clots. Keep a record of each dose and batch number.
Overdose
No serious effects of overdose have been reported, but very high factor levels may increase the risk of blood clots. The medical team will monitor and give supportive care if needed.
Therapeutic Class
Blood coagulation factor; plasma-derived factor VIII and von Willebrand factor concentrate (antihaemorrhagic).
Storage
Store as directed on the pack, usually at or below 25°C. Do not freeze. Keep in the original carton to protect from light, and out of the reach of children. Use the mixed solution promptly as directed.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.