Antihemophilic Factor (AHF, Factor VIII)(an tee hee moe fill’ ik fack’ tur)
Advate, Helixate FS, Hemofil M, Humate-P, Koate-DVI, Kogenate FS, Monoclate-P, Recombinate, ReFacto, Wilate, Xyntha
PREGNANCY CATEGORY C
Drug class
Antihemophilic
Therapeutic Actions
A normal plasma protein that is needed for the transformation of prothrombin to thrombin, the final step of the intrinsic clotting pathway.
Indications
Treatment of classical hemophilia (hemophilia A), in which there is a demonstrated deficiency of factor VIII; provides a temporary replacement of clotting factors to correct or prevent bleeding episodes or to allow necessary surgery
Short-term prophylaxis (ReFacto) to reduce frequency of spontaneous bleeding
Surgical and/or invasive procedures in patients with von Willebrand disease in whom desmopressin is ineffective or contraindicated to control bleeding; not for major surgery (Advate, Xyntha)
Routine prophylaxis to prevent or reduce the frequency of bleeding episodes in patients with hemophilia A (Advate)
Contraindications and Cautions
Contraindicated with antibodies to mouse, hamster, or bovine proteins or to porcine or murine factor.
Use cautiously with pregnancy.
Available Forms
IV injection—250, 500, 1,000, 1,500, 2,000, 3,000 international units/vial in numerous preparations; 450, 900 units (Wilate)
Dosages
Adult and pediatric patients
Administer IV using a plastic syringe; dose depends on weight, severity of deficiency, and severity of bleeding. Follow treatment carefully with factor VIII level assays.
Formulas used as a guide for dosage are:
Prophylaxis of spontaneous hemorrhage: Level of factor VIII required to prevent spontaneous hemorrhage is 5% of normal; 30% of normal is the minimum required for hemostasis following trauma or surgery; smaller doses may be needed if treated early. ReFacto is given at least two times per wk for short-term prevention or to decrease the frequency of spontaneous musculoskeletal hemorrhage in patients with hemophilia.
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