Antihemophilic Factor Injection

ANTIHEMOPHILIC FACTOR (an tee hee moe FIL ik fak tir) prevents and treats bleeding episodes in people with hemophilia A or von Willebrand disease, conditions caused by low levels of blood clotting factors. It works by increasing these factor levels in your body. This helps your blood clot normally, which reduces bleeding.

This medication is injected into a vein. It is usually given by your care team in a hospital or clinic setting.

If you get this medication at home, you will be taught how to prepare and give it. Use exactly as directed. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.

It is important that you put your used needles and syringes in a special sharps container. Do not put them in a trash can. If you do not have a sharps container, call your pharmacist or care team to get one.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Infection—fever, chills, cough, or sore throat

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• General discomfort and fatigue
• Headache
• Joint pain
• Muscle pain
• Pain, redness, or irritation at injection site

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

This medication is usually given in a hospital or clinic. If you are using this medication at home, you will be instructed on how to store this medication. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.

To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

• Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
• If you cannot return the medication ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of this medication safely.

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• An unusual or allergic reaction to antihemophilic factor, cow, hamster, or mouse proteins, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

Interactions are not expected.

If you get this medication at the hospital or clinic: It is important not to miss your dose. Call your care team if you are unable to keep an appointment.

If you give yourself this medication at home: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can, then continue your normal schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses. Call your care team with questions.

Your condition will be monitored carefully while you are receiving this medication.

You may need blood work while taking this medication.

Wear a medical ID bracelet or chain. Carry a card that describes your condition. List the medications and doses you take on the card.

Some products are derived from human plasma, and there is a small risk that these products may contain certain types of virus or bacteria. All products are processed to kill most viruses and bacteria. If you have questions concerning the risk of viral infections, discuss them with your doctor or care team.