Antihemophilic Factor (Injection)

Antihemophilic Factor (an-tee-hee-moe-FIL-ik FAK-tor)

Also called AHF or factor VIII. Prevents and controls bleeding in patients with hemophilia A, a disorder in which blood does not form clots normally.

Brand Name(s):

Alphanate, Koate-DVI, Hemofil-M, Monarc-M, Monoclate-P, Refacto, Recombinate, Kogenate FS, Helixate FS, Hyate:C, Advate
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to antihemophilic factor (AHF).

How to Use This Medicine:

Injectable

• This medicine is given through a tube that goes directly into a blood vein (intravenous, or IV).
• Before receiving AHF, you should be trained to prepare the medicine for injection and know how to use the IV equipment.

If a dose is missed:

• Try not to miss a dose. If possible, have other family members trained to give your treatment in case you cannot give it to yourself.
• If you do miss a dose, ask your doctor or home health caregiver for instructions.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Some brands of AHF are kept in the refrigerator and others can be kept at room temperature.
• Follow the instructions from your home health caregiver for storing your medicine.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Patients who have hemophilia should not take aspirin, because it may increase bleeding.
• Do not mix any other medicine with the AHF solution, unless directed by your doctor.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Check with your doctor before taking if you have kidney disease or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• AHF may be taken from donated human blood that has been tested for viruses and treated to keep from spreading infections. The risk of getting HIV (human immunodeficiency virus, the virus that causes AIDS) or hepatitis from this medicine is very low, but cannot be completely eliminated. As a precaution, you should receive a hepatitis B vaccine. AHF products are also available that are not taken from human blood.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Wheezing, trouble breathing, or chest tightness
• Hives or itching
• Swelling of the face, around eyes, or mouth
• Nausea and vomiting
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Dark-colored urine
• Fever or chills

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache
• Back pain
• Pain where the injection is given
• Tiredness

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.